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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination 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 misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous 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 Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.