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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

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

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

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous 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 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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