Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The Oklahoma City Thunder kicked off the 2025-26 NBA season with a remarkable milestone. In a thrilling match on Thursday, they triumphed over the Indiana Pacers with a score of 141-135 in double overtime, becoming the first team in NBA history to win back-to-back games in double overtime to start a season. This extraordinary feat follows a tight 2-1 double-OT victory against the Houston Rockets in their opening game on Tuesday.
This game was especially significant, as the Thunder and Pacers had squared off in the recent 2025 NBA Finals, where Oklahoma City secured its inaugural title by defeating Indiana in a dramatic Game 7 last June. Thursday's clash was a high-stakes rematch, characterized by intense physicality and fierce competition, underlining the rivalry that has developed between the two teams.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, was once again the star of the show, scoring a career-best 55 points, including an impressive 23 from the free-throw line. This performance not only marked the first 50-point game of the NBA season but also tied him with Russell Westbrook for the most 50-point games in Thunder history. Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his leadership and clutch ability as he guided the team through both overtime periods.
The game featured a physical contest with a total of 70 personal fouls and 51 free-throw attempts. Although the Thunder led by seven at halftime, the Pacers rallied back in the second half, led by Bennedict Mathurin. In a thrilling fourth quarter filled with lead changes, Pascal Siakam hit a game-tying jumper with just 6.5 seconds remaining, pushing the game into overtime.
In the first overtime, both teams remained close, unable to establish a definitive advantage. However, during the second overtime, Oklahoma City took control, primarily thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander's precise free-throw shooting. A crucial moment occurred with under 30 seconds remaining when Obi Toppin’s potential game-changing steal was negated due to a timeout called by Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, much to the dismay of Indiana fans.
In the end, the Thunder and Gilgeous-Alexander claimed victory. His incredible scoring performance, coupled with the team's resilience, positioned Oklahoma City to start the season 2-0 in an unmatched manner. These back-to-back double-overtime wins illustrate the team's determination and capability to perform at the highest level as they set their sights on another successful season.
English
