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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 opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory 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 champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit 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—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved 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 this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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