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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

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

The Rockets' big man 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 added 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.