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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.