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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.