Thunder Beat Rockets 125-124 in Double Overtime

The Oklahoma City Thunder opened the 2025–26 season by raising their championship banner and receiving 14‑karat gold rings set with more than 800 custom gemstones, then beat the Houston Rockets 125–124 in double overtime. Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander scored 35 points and hit the game‑winning free throws. Alperen Şengün led Houston with 39 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, and Amen Thompson also contributed. Kevin Durant made his Rockets regular‑season debut (23 points, nine rebounds), missed a late free throw in regulation and fouled Gilgeous‑Alexander with 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime while enduring boos and heated fan interactions. Game officials said Houston avoided a technical after a near‑timeout confusion in the first overtime.