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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.