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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

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

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.