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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. 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 championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad 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 relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

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