Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joined the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player delivered the decisive baskets late in a second overtime period as the defending champions started their NBA title defense with a narrow victory over the visiting Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just mere seconds remaining in double OT, giving the champions a positive start.
The Rockets' big man top-scored with a game-high 39 and also hit a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defence," SGA said of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—shots, misses, good luck 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 unveiled at their home court, while the players were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had won the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
In other action, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was insufficient to prevent his new team the Los Angeles Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
The Lakers were missing the league's top scorer LeBron James as he is recovering from a back issue.
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