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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

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

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.