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

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, 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 first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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