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The Thunder's star player scored the winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

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

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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