🔗 Share this article

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Indiana 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.

Indiana will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were without the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.