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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, 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 players were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

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

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

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