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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

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 same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

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