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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

The Rockets' big man 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, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," 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—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with 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 relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

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