Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Win

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered the winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the champions a winning beginning.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside the game's hero.

"Grit and defense," Gilgeous-Alexander said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the players were awarded their title rings.

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

The Pacers will have the chance to secure some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Detroit Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.

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

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