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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

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

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

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

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.