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

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.