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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving 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 the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.