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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

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

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

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.