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The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, securing the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defensive work to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City beat the Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from a back issue.