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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder 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 remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

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