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The Thunder's star player scored the winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss 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 LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.