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

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.