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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign 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 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Determination and defence," SGA commented 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, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.