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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. 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 players were presented with their title rings.

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.