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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.