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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

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 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 enough defensive work to get the win. 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 squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.