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The Thunder's star player delivered the game-winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also hit a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points, played a major role together with the game's hero.

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

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

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