The 2025-26 NBA season opened with historic drama as the Oklahoma City Thunder narrowly defeated the Houston Rockets 125-124 in a double-overtime thriller that captivated fans at the Paycom Center. The game, which marked the first NBA season opener to reach double overtime since 2005, came on a night when the Thunder celebrated their 2024-25 championship with a banner-raising ceremony.

Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander proved why he holds that title, scoring 35 points despite being held to just 11 through three quarters. The Thunder star saved his best for the critical moments, hitting two decisive free throws with only 2.3 seconds remaining in the second overtime after drawing a foul. Gilgeous-Alexander also contributed five rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two blocks in a complete performance that showcased his clutch gene.

The Rockets made the Thunder work for every point, with center Alperen Sengun delivering a sensational performance that nearly spoiled Oklahoma City's championship celebration. Sengun exploded for 39 points and 11 rebounds while making a career-high five three-pointers, demonstrating expanded range that could make him one of the league's most dangerous big men. Houston's defensive specialist Amen Thompson made life difficult for Gilgeous-Alexander throughout the night, though his 0-for-7 shooting from beyond the arc highlighted potential offensive limitations.

The game took on added significance as NBC's return to NBA broadcasting after a 23-year absence. Mike Tirico, Reggie Miller, and Jamal Crawford called the action, bringing the network back into the basketball fold for the first time since 2002. The broadcast team witnessed one of the most exciting opening nights in recent memory.

The second game of the doubleheader saw the Golden State Warriors defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 119-109, with Jimmy Butler's Warriors debut stealing headlines. Butler was perfect from the free-throw line, making all 16 attempts to score 31 points with five rebounds and four assists. His 16 free throws made represented the most by any Warriors player in a season opener, setting an immediate tone for his impact in Golden State.

Despite Luka Doncic's 43-point effort for the Lakers, Los Angeles couldn't overcome Golden State's depth and balance. The Warriors showcased their championship potential by posting a plus-9 rating during Stephen Curry's 16 minutes off the court, demonstrating they're no longer solely dependent on their franchise star. Jonathan Kuminga added four three-pointers, nine rebounds, and six assists, exemplifying the multi-faceted roster that makes Golden State a legitimate contender.

The Thunder enter the season as favorites after returning 95 percent of their regular-season minutes and 99 percent of their playoff minutes from last year's championship squad. If opening night is any indication, the defending champions won't relinquish their crown easily, showing the resilience and star power necessary to repeat in what promises to be a fiercely competitive season.