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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders 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 the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous 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 Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.