🔗 Share this article

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving 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 alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said 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 defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

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

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

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.