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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

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

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

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star 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 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.