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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

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, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

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

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

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

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss 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 LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.