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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in 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 scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best 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," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

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

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

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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