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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the 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 is recovering from sciatica.