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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive points deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, played a major role together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to get some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.