🔗 Share this article

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

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere 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 career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were presented with their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.