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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws 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 hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

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

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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