Thunder Begin Championship Defense with Thrilling Overtime Win

The Thunder's star player scored the winning points late in double overtime as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in double OT, giving the champions a winning beginning.

Houston's Alperun Sengun top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."

Before the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the 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 crown.

The Pacers will have the chance to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host the Thunder, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical 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 stop his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the league's top scorer LeBron James as he recovers from sciatica.