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The Thunder's star player scored the winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

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

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure 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 assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.