The Oklahoma City Thunder kicked off the 2025-26 NBA season with a thrilling 125-124 victory in double overtime against the Houston Rockets. The game was marked by excitement and high stakes as the Thunder celebrated their championship banner and received their championship rings.
Star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was awarded the MVP title, made crucial contributions in the closing moments. With just 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime, he sank two free throws to secure the win for the Thunder. Earlier, he also hit a pivotal 15-foot pull-up jumper with 2.6 seconds left in regulation, which sent the game into overtime.
The match had its share of drama, particularly when Kevin Durant, playing for the Rockets, attempted to call a timeout in the dying seconds of the first overtime. The Rockets had no timeouts remaining, and while the referees did not acknowledge the request, a technical foul could have shifted the momentum in OKC’s favor with a free throw opportunity. Fortunately for the Thunder, they navigated the potential controversy and emerged victorious.
Alperen Sengun was a standout performer for the Rockets, leading all scorers with 39 points, while Gilgeous-Alexander finished as the top scorer for the Thunder with 35 points. This exhilarating opener sets a promising tone for the season ahead, showcasing the competitive spirit and resilience of both teams.