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The Thunder's star player delivered the winning baskets deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

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

Before the tip-off, Oklahoma's title banner was raised at their home court, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Jimmy Butler scored 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 sciatica.