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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

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

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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