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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.