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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started 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 left in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

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

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.

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