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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

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

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

Before 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 defeated 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.

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

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

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.