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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the game-winning baskets late in double overtime as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow win over the Houston Rockets.

The reigning MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving 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 Chet Holmgren, who added 28 points of his own, was instrumental together with the game's hero.

"Determination and defence," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did enough defence to secure the victory. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."

Before the game, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the players were awarded their championship rings.

Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 title.

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

Elsewhere, a huge effort of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to stop his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.

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

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