🔗 Share this article

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander 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, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

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

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.