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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the champions 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 contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to 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.

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