Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Triumph

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some payback on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.