The wait is over, and the 2025-26 NBA season has kicked off with a bang! The first week of action delivered everything we love about basketball: dramatic finishes, superstar performances, and the first glimpse of future stars. From championship celebrations to early-season struggles, let’s dive into the biggest stories from an unforgettable opening week.
Thunder and Rockets Renew Rivalry in Double-Overtime Thriller
All eyes were on Oklahoma City for opening night as the Thunder celebrated their first-ever NBA Championship. The ring ceremony was electric, but the real fireworks began at tip-off. In a spectacular Finals rematch, the Thunder hosted Kevin Durant and the Houston Rockets. The game was a back-and-forth battle that refused to end, stretching into double overtime. Ultimately, the defending champs proved their mettle, edging out the Rockets 125-124 in an instant classic. This hard-fought victory shows that OKC has no intention of slowing down after their title run.
Warriors Start Hot, Lakers Stumble Out of the Gate
The Golden State Warriors came out firing on all cylinders, securing two impressive wins to start their campaign. They first traveled to Los Angeles and spoiled the Lakers’ home opener with a 119-109 victory, led by a masterful performance from Stephen Curry. The Lakers, under new head coach J.J. Redick, felt the absence of LeBron James, who was sidelined with a back injury.
The Warriors didn’t stop there. They followed up their road win with another high-scoring triumph at home, defeating the Denver Nuggets 137-131. With two key victories against Western Conference rivals, Golden State has sent a clear message that they are a force to be reckoned with this season.
Eastern Conference Surprises and Concerns
In the East, several teams made strong first impressions. The New York Knicks, despite dealing with injuries to key players like Darius Garland and Max Strus, showcased their depth and resilience. They secured a solid 119-111 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden, proving they are ready to compete. The Toronto Raptors also started their season on a high note, earning a significant victory over the Atlanta Hawks.
On the other hand, the Cavaliers are facing early health concerns. Starting the season with multiple players on the injury report is a tough blow for a team with high expectations in the competitive Eastern Conference.
Welcome to the League, Rookies!
The opening week also gave us a look at the league’s next generation of talent. San Antonio’s top draft pick, Cooper Flagg, made a memorable debut. He was a major factor in the Spurs’ dominant 125-92 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, putting his skills on full display. His performance, along with those of other promising rookies, signals that the future of the NBA is in good hands.
The first week has set the stage for what promises to be an incredible season. We’ve already seen championship grit, surprising starts, and the emergence of new stars. Welcome back, NBA.
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