Thunder Celebrate Championship with Thrilling Double-Overtime Win Over Rockets
The Oklahoma City Thunder celebrated their NBA championship with a ring ceremony and banner unveiling, then secured a thrilling 125-124 double-overtime victory against the Houston Rockets on opening night.
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Overview
- The Oklahoma City Thunder began their NBA title defense on Opening Night, celebrating their championship with a ring ceremony and banner unveiling.
- Following the festivities, the Thunder engaged the Houston Rockets in a thrilling double-overtime game, demonstrating fierce competition from both teams.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's two crucial free throws in the second overtime period ultimately secured the Thunder's narrow 125-124 victory.
- Chet Holmgren led the Thunder with 28 points and seven rebounds, while Alperen Sengun delivered a standout performance for the Rockets with 39 points.
- This rare double-overtime win on NBA Opening Night added an extra layer of excitement to the Thunder's championship celebration and season start.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame this story by emphasizing the celebratory atmosphere for Thunder fans and the dramatic victory over former star Kevin Durant. They highlight Durant's negative reception and crucial late-game errors, such as his game-deciding foul and attempted illegal timeout, to underscore the Thunder's triumph and the fans' satisfaction.
"Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored the winning points deep into double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their NBA title defence with a 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets."
BBC News"The overtime period was not kind to Durant, showing that even a veteran could make some mistakes under pressure."
USA TODAY"Thunder fans got everything they wanted on Tuesday — a ring ceremony, a championship banner unveiling and a win over ex-Oklahoma City star Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets."
Associated PressArticles (5)
Center (3)
FAQ
The Thunder's win marked a successful start to their championship title defense, following a ring ceremony and banner unveiling. It was also notable for being only the sixth time an opening night game has gone into double overtime in NBA history.
The Thunder secured their championship by defeating the Indiana Pacers in a seven-game series during the 2025 NBA Finals. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the NBA Finals MVP.
Kevin Durant's return to Oklahoma City was met with loud boos from Thunder fans, reflecting the lingering sentiment from his departure in 2016. Durant noted that the reception was 'all love,' suggesting a complex mix of emotions.
History
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