Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Double Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Determination and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team moved in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, 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 Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.