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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

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

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

"Grit and defense," SGA 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 bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

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