Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored 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, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," 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, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face Oklahoma, 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 dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.