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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad 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 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.