The Oklahoma City Thunder aren’t sneaking up on anyone anymore. They’re the defending NBA champions. They’ve got the league’s MVP leading the charge. They’re young, hungry, and loaded with talent again.
This season isn’t about proving they belong; it’s about defending their crown and showing the league that last year was only the beginning. Every team will bring their best shot, which makes these games even bigger. Here are the 10 matchups you absolutely can’t miss.
Oct 21 vs Houston
Banner night... The Thunder raise their NBA title banner and hand out rings in front of a roaring home crowd. The emotion will be off the charts as the champs tip off a brand new season.
2. Nov 11 vs Golden State
Steph Curry and the Warriors come to town. It’s the new guard vs the old guard, and every possession will feel like a statement
3. Dec 25 vs San Antonio
Christmas Day basketball in Oklahoma City. The Spurs bring their new core, including second year of Wemby, but all eyes will be on the champs shining under the national spotlight
4. Jan 2 @ Golden State
A trip to the Bay against the team that once owned the Western Conference. If OKC wants to show dynasty potential, this is the kind of road win that matters.
5. Jan 11 vs Miami
The Heat may not have Jimmy Butler anymore, but they still bring toughness and defensive intensity. A perfect midseason test for the champs’ depth and discipline.
6. Feb 1 @ Denver
Jokic and the Nuggets are still one of the biggest threats in the West. Every matchup with Denver feels like playoff basketball.
7. Mar 4 @ New York
The Garden. The lights. The history. The MVP walking into the world’s most famous arena is a recipe for something unforgettable.
8. Mar 12 vs Boston
Boston is in a bit of a rebuild, but this is still a fun franchise to host. Their defense vs OKC’s high-powered attack could pose some problems.
MORE: Celtics fans need to know name Josh Minott
9. Mar 29 vs New York
Knicks return to OKC late in the year with playoff positioning at stake. Two teams fighting for seeding under the pressure cooker of March basketball.
10. Apr 2 vs Los Angeles
The Lakers. The stars. The spotlight. With the postseason looming, this matchup will have that playoff-level atmosphere fans live for. Will this be the last time they see LeBron?
The Thunder enter 2025-26 as the hunted, not the hunters. But that’s the fun part. Every arena will circle their games, every opponent will throw their best punch, and every night will feel bigger than the last. That’s what happens when you’re the champs. Oklahoma City has the MVP, the depth, and the swagger to back it all up. Buckle in, this season is going to be one wild ride.
MORE NBA NEWS: