Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Victory

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. 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 chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the road team.

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