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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.