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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, 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 Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.