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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 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players 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 claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.