Thunder Edge Rockets 125-124 in Thrilling Game Recap (Oct 21, 2025)
In an exhilarating season opener on October 21, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder achieved a dramatic 125-124 victory over the Houston Rockets. This game was particularly special for Thunder fans as it featured a championship ring ceremony and the unveiling of the championship banner. The game also marked the return of Kevin Durant to Oklahoma City, where he faced former fans after leaving for the Golden State Warriors in 2016.
Thrilling Game Recap
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP and last season’s scoring champion, was pivotal in the Thunder’s win. Despite a slow start, where he had only five points at halftime, he ultimately finished with 35 points. His most critical moment came with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, when he hit two free throws after being fouled by Durant, who exited the game after his sixth foul.
Key Players and Stats
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 35 points, critical late-game free throws
- Chet Holmgren: 28 points, 7 rebounds
- Kevin Durant: 23 points, 9 rebounds in his first game with the Rockets
- Alperen Sengun (Rockets): 39 points, 11 rebounds
Game Highlights
As tension mounted, Gilgeous-Alexander’s short jumper tied the game at 104 with 2.1 seconds remaining in regulation. Sengun missed a fadeaway attempt at the buzzer, pushing the game into overtime. In the first overtime, the teams were tied at 115 when a controversial moment occurred. Durant attempted to call a timeout without a remaining one, but officials did not make the call, allowing the game to proceed into a second overtime.
Ultimately, Perkins’ free throws sealed the game for the Thunder. Houston’s Jabari Smith Jr. had the chance to tie the game again but missed a last-second jumper as time expired. The defeat was especially painful for Durant, who faced boos from the Thunder crowd throughout the game.
Upcoming Matches
The Thunder will next visit the Indiana Pacers on Thursday, while the Rockets are set to face the Detroit Pistons on Friday. This season opener illustrated the fierce competition expected in the NBA as both teams strive for success in the upcoming games.
