The Golden State Warriors have claimed the early advantage in the NBA Finals by recording a 108-100 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in overtime.

Cleveland were in control for much of the first half on the opening night of the series and led by 10 points in the first quarter.

Golden State recovered after the interval to keep the game close and the two sides shared 50 points in the final 12 minutes to set up an exciting finale.

LeBron James produced a memorable performance for the Cavaliers with 44 points, but he missed a potential game-winner at the buzzer in the fourth quarter.

Tristan Thompson continued his fine form with 15 rebounds in another strong display in the paint, but a lack of points from the bench - JR Smith was the only player to score off the bench with nine points - cost the Cavaliers in Oakland.

Regular season MVP Stephen Curry, who finished the night with 26 points, made four free-throws early in the extra period after the two sides were tied at 98-98.

Harrison Barnes extended the lead with a vital three-pointer, before Andre Iguodala and Draymond Green both added to the lead from the free-throw line.

Cleveland were dealt another blow when Kyrie Irving was forced off the court in overtime following an awkward fall, and his status for the remainder of the series is likely to be in doubt after his injury problems earlier in the playoffs.

The Warriors never looked back as the Cavaliers went scoreless in the first four minutes of overtime and the home team were soon 10 points ahead.

James reduced the lead with an uncontested layup in the closing seconds of the game, but his stunning performance would prove to be in vain as Golden State clinched the lead ahead of Sunday's second game of the series.