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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning 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 champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new 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 visiting Warriors.

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