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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

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

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

"Grit and defense," SGA commented 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 bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated 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 won the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.