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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

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

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.