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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

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

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

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