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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

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

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.

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