🔗 Share this article

The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

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

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Indiana Pacers in last 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 this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.