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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man 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, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck 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, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.

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