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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the 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 claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles 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 chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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