Thunder Kick Off Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Victory

The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened 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 remaining in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.

Houston's Alperun Sengun led all scorers with 39 points and also hit a career-high five three-pointers.

But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points of his own, played a major role together with the game's hero.

"Grit and defence," Gilgeous-Alexander commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a opportunity 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 title banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their title rings.

The Thunder defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the team relocated in 2008 to Oklahoma City from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.

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

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his current team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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