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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented 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 misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

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

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.