Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Thrilling Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. 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 presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds 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.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.