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The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds left in double OT, securing the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, played a major role alongside the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defensive work to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Prior to the game, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 points for the visiting Warriors.

The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.