🔗 Share this article

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

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

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

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

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 for the road team.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.