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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best 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," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

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

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

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