Oklahoma City Thunder Kick Off Title Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph

The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

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

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

But the Thunder's rookie, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defense," SGA commented of their performance. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, good luck or bad luck. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're pretty rusty, but it's a positive beginning."

Prior to the game, Oklahoma's championship banner was unveiled at their home court, while the squad were awarded their championship rings.

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

The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.

Elsewhere, a huge 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 defeat against the Warriors.

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

Los Angeles were without the NBA's all-time leading scorer LeBron James as he recovers from a back issue.