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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.