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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

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

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.