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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, 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 Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.