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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

"Determination and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss 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 missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.