🔗 Share this article

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

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

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.