The Thunder star came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a 125-124 win over the Houston Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a winning beginning.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Determination and defence," SGA said of their performance. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a good start."
Prior to the tip-off, the team's championship banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their maiden championship since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 title.
The Pacers will have the opportunity to secure some payback on this Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the same day at the Pistons.
In other action, a huge performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from the Slovenian star was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 loss against the Golden State Warriors.
Miami's star scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 for the road team.
The Lakers were missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer James as he recovers from a back issue.
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