Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

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

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

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

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.

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