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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent 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 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.