Oklahama: The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their blistering start to the 2025–26 NBA season with a dominant 126–102 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night at the Paycom Center.
Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 28 points and 11 assists, the Thunder delivered one of their most complete team performances of the year, extending their record to 11–1 overall and 5–0 at home.
Gilgeous-Alexander Sets the Tone Early
From the opening tip, Gilgeous-Alexander took charge of the offense, controlling tempo and relentlessly attacking the Warriors’ defense. The Canadian guard shot efficiently from mid-range, got to his spots with ease, and consistently created open looks for teammates.
“We’re playing connected basketball,” Gilgeous-Alexander said postgame. “Everyone trusts the system, and we’re locked in on both ends.”
Chet Holmgren’s Perfect Night
Rookie sensation Chet Holmgren produced another standout performance, finishing with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks — all while shooting a perfect 9-of-9 from the field, including two three-pointers.
Holmgren’s inside presence and defensive impact helped Oklahoma City build an early double-digit lead that ballooned to 19 points at halftime.
The 22-year-old center’s flawless night made him the first Thunder player since Kevin Durant (2013) to record 20+ points on 100% shooting from the field.
Thunder Depth Shines Once Again
Oklahoma City’s bench continued to impress as Isaiah Joe chipped in 18 points on 4-of-6 shooting from beyond the arc, while rookie Ajay Mitchell added 17 points and four assists. The Thunder’s 44-point third quarter — fueled by 13 from Gilgeous-Alexander and 12 from Holmgren — effectively ended the contest.
By the start of the fourth quarter, Oklahoma City led by 30, allowing head coach Mark Daigneault to rest his starters early.
“It’s not just Shai and Chet,” Daigneault said. “Our whole group is playing with purpose and maturity. We’re learning how to close games the right way.”
Warriors Struggle Despite Curry’s Return
For Golden State, it was another frustrating night. Superstar Stephen Curry, returning from an illness that sidelined him for two games, was held to just 11 points on 4-of-13 shooting.
The Warriors’ offense never found rhythm, struggling against Oklahoma City’s aggressive perimeter defense and transition pace.
Veteran Klay Thompson managed 15 points, while Jonathan Kuminga added 14, but the team shot under 42% overall and committed 17 turnovers.
The loss marked Golden State’s fifth defeat in their last seven outings, dropping them to 6–6 on the season — a worrying trend for a squad looking to regain its championship form.
Thunder Among NBA’s Elite
The Thunder’s 11–1 start marks their best opening to a season since 2013–14, when they were led by Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. The current roster, built around Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, has emerged as one of the NBA’s most balanced and disciplined young units.
With five players averaging double figures and the league’s No. 2 defensive rating, Oklahoma City looks poised to challenge the Western Conference elite.
