🔗 Share this article

The Thunder's star player scored the decisive baskets deep into a second overtime period as the Oklahoma City Thunder opened their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.

Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds remaining in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.

The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five three-pointers.

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

"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we do it defensively we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—shots, missed attempts, fortune 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, the team's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the players were awarded their title rings.

Oklahoma City 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 crown.

Indiana will have the opportunity to get some payback on this Friday when they face the Thunder, while the Rockets return to action on the identical day at the Pistons.

In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine dimes from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Warriors.

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

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