Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Victory

The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.

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

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Determination and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were presented with their title rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the team relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.

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

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter added 23 points for the road team.

Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from sciatica.