Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Victory

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Before the game, the team's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.