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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 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 connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.