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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana 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 claimed the 1979 title.

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

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.