Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, 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 tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.