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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

Oklahoma City defeated 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 won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face 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 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.