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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws 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 Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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