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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last 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 won the 1979 title.

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

In other action, 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 suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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