The 2025-26 NBA season started with an incredible game as the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Houston Rockets 125-124 in double overtime. The defending champions, led by a fantastic performance from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, won the game in the final seconds after a hard-fought battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
This opening night classic showed the resilience of the champion Thunder and the new strength of the Rockets. It was a duel between superstars, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander taking over late for the Thunder, while Alperen Sengun had a historic night for the Rockets. Despite key players fouling out, both teams displayed incredible determination, setting a high standard for the season ahead.
💍 A Champion’s Welcome
Before the game, the atmosphere in Oklahoma City was electric. The Thunder celebrated their 2024-25 NBA championship, receiving their rings in front of a cheering home crowd. However, the celebration quickly turned into a serious contest. The visiting Rockets, featuring their new star Kevin Durant in his return to OKC, were ready to challenge the champions from the start. The game was close throughout, with 13 lead changes by halftime, showing that both teams were evenly matched.
🌟 Stars Shine Bright on Opening Night
The game featured amazing performances from both sides. For the Thunder, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was unstoppable when it mattered most, scoring 24 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter and overtimes. For the Rockets, Alperen Sengun had a career night, finishing with 39 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. He made NBA history by becoming the first player to record at least 35 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 three-pointers in a season opener. Chet Holmgren also had a strong start for the Thunder, but both he and Kevin Durant eventually fouled out in the intense matchup.
⏳ Decided in the Final Seconds
The excitement reached its peak in the final minutes. SGA tied the game to send it into the first overtime. Then, Alperen Sengun’s layup forced a second overtime. In the final seconds of the game, with the score tight, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drove against Kevin Durant and drew a crucial foul, which was Durant’s sixth. SGA calmly made both free throws to give the Thunder a one-point lead with just 2.3 seconds left. The Rockets had one last chance, but Jabari Smith Jr.’s shot at the buzzer missed, sealing the dramatic victory for the home team.
