🔗 Share this article

The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

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

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.