Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough 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 home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

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

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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