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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.