Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Overtime Triumph

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the decisive baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did enough defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in the previous season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes 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 Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.

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