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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.