Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Victory

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

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

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.

"Grit and defense," SGA said of their performance. "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 defensive work to secure the victory. 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 squad were awarded their title rings.

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

Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

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

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.

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