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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, played a major role together with 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 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 championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.

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