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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental 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 chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 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.