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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck 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 squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder 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 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.