🔗 Share this article

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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