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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving 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 added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma'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 best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.