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The Thunder's star player scored the winning 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.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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