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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 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 winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder defeated the 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 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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