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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

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

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.