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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

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

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

Oklahoma City defeated 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 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.