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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said 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 bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

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

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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