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The Thunder's star player scored the winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, 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 bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

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