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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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 contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

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