A ring and banner ceremony. Double overtime. NBA on NBC's return. The NBA is truly back.

In the first game of the 2025-26 regular season, the Oklahoma City Thunder outlasted the Houston Rockets 125-124 in a contest that needed the dying seconds of double overtime to be decided.

Houston had the last chance when Jabari Smith Jr. attempted a tough turnaround jumper from the left corner, but it didn't come close.

Reigning league MVP and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander didn't enjoy a positive start, but grew into the game as the quarters progressed and showed why he won what he did last season.

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Kevin Durant also made his return to Oklahoma City, taking in the jeers from Thunder fans. Durant would've likely had the last shot to w

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