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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.