Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Victory

The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

"Grit 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, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.