Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph

The Thunder's star player delivered the winning points deep into double overtime 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 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a positive start.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

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

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

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