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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

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

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.