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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.