🔗 Share this article

The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

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

The Thunder beat the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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