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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity 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 tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous 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 get some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.