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The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just 2.3 seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man top-scored with 39 points and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

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

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

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

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some payback on Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Detroit Pistons.

In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine dimes from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.