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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," 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—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.