Oklahoma City, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The NBA season kicks off with the Oklahoma City Thunder hosting the Houston Rockets. The Thunder unveil their championship banner, while the Rockets debut Kevin Durant. Both teams face injury challenges that could impact their performance. Despite key absences, fans are eager to watch Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lead the Thunder as they engage in a closely contested matchup against the revamped Rockets.
Oklahoma City
The 2025-26 NBA season officially begins on Tuesday with an exciting doubleheader broadcast on NBC and Peacock. At 7:30 PM ET, the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder will host the Houston Rockets in a monumental season opener. The nightcap features the Los Angeles Lakers taking on the Golden State Warriors at 10 PM ET.
As the Thunder unveil their first-ever NBA championship banner on Opening Night, they face a tough challenge against the Rockets, who welcome back former Thunder star Kevin Durant, who is set to make his debut for Houston. This adds an extra layer of excitement, especially for Oklahoma City fans. However, the Thunder will be missing several key players, which could impact their performance.
Among the players absent for the Thunder are rookie big man Thomas Sorber, who is out for the entire season due to an ACL injury. Veteran swingman Kenrich Williams is also sidelined as he recovers from offseason knee surgery. Additionally, rookie point guard Nikola Topic is not expected to return until mid-November after undergoing a medical procedure. All-NBA swingman Jalen Williams will miss the season opener while he recuperates from wrist surgery.
Despite these injuries, fans can look forward to seeing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander lead the Thunder. Last season’s MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander, aims to replicate his impressive playoff performance, where he demonstrated significant improvements in his playmaking abilities, averaging 5.3 assists per game during the preseason. With Jalen Williams absent, Chet Holmgren is anticipated to take on a larger role this season. Players like Ajay Mitchell and Alex Caruso are expected to see action in the season opener, adding depth to the Thunder lineup.
The Rockets, led by their starting five, including Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Steven Adams, will also be without key players Fred VanVleet, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Jae’Sean Tate, all of whom will miss the entire season due to injuries. This has forced Houston to adjust their strategy as they head into the season.
In preparation for the season, the NBA is rolling out the ‘Tap to Watch’ initiative, allowing fans easier access to both national and local games across all broadcasting partners. This initiative is part of the league’s effort to promote greater fan engagement and accessibility to live basketball.
As the thunderous atmosphere builds in Oklahoma City for the season opener, the public and fans alike are eager to see how the two teams will perform given their respective circumstances, not just on Tuesday but throughout the season.
Key Injuries Impacting the Thunder
- Thomas Sorber: Out for the season (ACL injury)
- Kenrich Williams: Out due to offseason knee surgery
- Nikola Topic: Out until mid-November (medical procedure)
- Jalen Williams: Out (wrist surgery)
Injury Report for the Rockets
- Fred VanVleet: Out for the season (injury)
- Dorian Finney-Smith: Out for the season (injury)
- Jae’Sean Tate: Out for the season (injury)
Game Preview
Fans can expect a well-fought matchup between the Thunder and the Rockets, each team carrying hopes and aspirations into the new season, making for an exhilarating start to NBA basketball.
FAQ
When does the NBA 2025-26 season start?
The NBA 2025-26 season starts on Tuesday with a doubleheader, featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets at 7:30 PM ET and the Los Angeles Lakers vs. the Golden State Warriors at 10 PM ET.
Who are the key players to watch in the season opener?
For the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will lead the team, while the Rockets will showcase Kevin Durant in his debut game with the team.
Are any significant players injured for the opening game?
Yes, the Thunder will be without Thomas Sorber, Kenrich Williams, Nikola Topic, and Jalen Williams due to injuries. The Rockets will also miss Fred VanVleet, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Jae’Sean Tate for the entire season.
What is the ‘Tap to Watch’ initiative?
The ‘Tap to Watch’ initiative is aimed at enhancing fan engagement by providing easier access to live national and local games across all broadcasting partners.
Season Overview Chart
| Team | Key Players Out | Opening Game Opponent | Projected Starters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma City Thunder | Thomas Sorber, Kenrich Williams, Nikola Topic, Jalen Williams | Houston Rockets | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Ajay Mitchell, Alex Caruso |
| Houston Rockets | Fred VanVleet, Dorian Finney-Smith, Jae’Sean Tate | Oklahoma City Thunder | Amen Thompson, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith Jr., Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams |
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Thunder Playmaking Leap
- NBA.com: Thunder Release Options
- News On 6: Thunder Banner Night Injury Report
- Houston Chronicle: Rockets Starting Lineup
- Covers: Rockets vs. Thunder Predictions
- Wikipedia: National Basketball Association
- Google Search: Oklahoma City Thunder
- Google Scholar: NBA Injuries 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NBA
- Google News: NBA Opening Night 2025
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