Oklahoma City Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Triumph

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a winning beginning.

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

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

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.

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

Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Golden State's sharpshooter chipped in 23 for the road team.

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.