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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

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

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

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the 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 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.