Thunder Begin Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Win

The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets late in a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their NBA title defense with a 125-124 victory over the visiting Rockets.

The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds left in double OT, securing the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.

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

"Grit and defence," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."

Prior to the tip-off, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to get some early revenge on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Houston are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was insufficient to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

Miami's star picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry chipped in 23 for the road team.

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