NBA fans couldn’t have asked for a better way to open the 2025–26 season.
From Oklahoma City’s double-overtime classic against Houston to Golden State’s statement win over the LeBron-less Lakers, the opening night had practically everything — clutch plays, new faces, and a glimpse into what promises to be another unforgettable year in the league.
Warriors flex new firepower
The Golden State Warriors, long known for their dazzling pace-and-space style in the NBA, looked revitalized in their 119–109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. It was a night that showcased not just Stephen Curry’s timeless shooting or Jimmy Butler’s steely leadership, but also the impact of new and returning names reshaping the team’s identity.
Golden State’s offseason moves in the NBA paid immediate dividends. The addition of veteran center Al Horford brought a stabilizing presence in the paint and beyond the arc. Known for his ability to hit treys and make smart defensive rotations, Horford’s presence allowed the Warriors to play a more versatile and fluid brand of basketball.
Lakers’ Ayton and Dončić’ mix it up with GSW’s Kuminga and Hield in their 1st NBA game of the season as Reeves looks on
His arrival, though subtle in the box score, has also freed up Jonathan Kuminga, who finally seems to be coming into his own after a protracted contract saga that stretched through the summer.
Kuminga, fresh from signing a two-year, US$46 million deal, delivered a complete performance — 17 points, nine rebounds, and six assists — while thriving in the Warriors’ motion-heavy offense. His second-half surge, punctuated by rim attacks and timely boards, was a sign that the young forward has learned to balance aggression with poise.
Coach Steve Kerr credited the team’s renewed chemistry to experience and buy-in. “We’ve got a locker room full of vets who know how to win,” he said. “Al brings calm and structure, and Jonathan’s been great at adapting to what we need.”
The Butler effect
If last season’s midyear acquisition of Jimmy Butler III turned heads, his opening-night performance only confirmed that he’s the real deal in the Bay.
Coming off an injury-riddled preseason, Butler showed no signs of slowing down — pouring in 31 points and sinking all 16 of his free throws, the most ever by a Warriors player in a season opener. He was the team’s heartbeat on both ends, slowing down the tempo when needed and drawing fouls to control momentum.
“Jimmy brings a new level of confidence,” Kerr added. “Steph and Dray know they’ve got another guy who can carry the team.”
The result was vintage Warriors basketball: crisp ball movement, unselfish spacing, and torrid shooting from beyond the arc. Their defense, anchored by Draymond Green and bolstered by Horford’s savvy positioning, forced 20 Laker turnovers that led to 22 Golden State points.
Lakers miss LeBron, but Luka shines
Luka Dončić’ dribbling the ball against Steph Curry
For the Lakers, the night was bittersweet.
LeBron James, sidelined with sciatica, watched courtside with son Bronny — his first time as a full-time spectator in 23 years in the NBA. His absence, however, made way for Luka Dončić to step into the spotlight. The Slovenian superstar was brilliant, scoring 43 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out eight assists in his first full season as L.A.’s centerpiece.
Dončić’s improved conditioning was evident.
Slimmer and quicker, he attacked the rim with agility that made him nearly unguardable. Yet, despite his heroics, the Lakers’ lack of cohesion was apparent. New center Deandre Ayton managed just 10 points and six boards, still adjusting to his role in JJ Redick’s new system. Los Angeles also struggled from deep, shooting a dismal 25% from three-point range.
Still, Dončić’s effort hinted at what’s to come. The baton in Los Angeles has officially passed — from LeBron to Luka — and the future remains bright.
Thunder and Rockets round out a night to remember
OKC’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (center) taking on the Rockets duo of Steven Adams and Alperen Şengün
Earlier in the night, defending NBA champions Oklahoma City Thunder edged the newly revamped Houston Rockets in a double-overtime thriller that saw MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander deliver another clutch masterpiece.
On ring night, the Thunder’s poise and composure shone through against Houston’s imposing lineup of Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., Steven Adams, and Amen Thompson — the smallest player in the Rockets’ first five at 6-foot-7. Despite Houston’s clear size advantage, Oklahoma City’s trademark speed, spacing, and discipline once again proved decisive.
The Rockets’ towering starting unit, the tallest in league history for an opening night, dominated early with interior scoring and strong rebounding. Şengün led Houston with 39 points and 11 boards, while Durant added 28 in his return to OKC. But as the game wore on, the Thunder’s relentless ball pressure and transition offense began to wear down the bigger Rockets.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who finished with 35 points, five assists, and two steals, took control in the clutch — hitting key free throws and clutch mid-range jumpers in the second overtime. Rookie forward Cason Wallace and sharpshooter Isaiah Joe provided crucial support, spacing the floor and forcing Houston to chase on defense.
The game’s turning point came in the final minute, when Thompson — who had defended brilliantly all night — missed a potential go-ahead three. The Thunder capitalized, with Gilgeous-Alexander drawing a foul from Durant on a pump fake and icing the game at the line.
Despite the loss, the Rockets showed promise. Their length and defense rattled OKC for much of the game, and Durant’s leadership was evident in orchestrating Houston’s new-look offense. However, as coach Ime Udoka noted postgame, “We’ve got the height, but we still need the heartbeat. Tonight, the NBA champs reminded us what that looks like.”
A preview of what’s to come
If the game’s opening night was any indication, the 2025–26 NBA season will be one for the books.
The Warriors and the Lakers — both favorites to contend in the West — showed flashes of brilliance and areas to improve.
Golden State’s blend of experience and rejuvenation looked sharper than ever, while Los Angeles’ young core, anchored by a resurgent Dončić, promises fireworks down the stretch.
Meanwhile, OKC’s grit and Houston’s reinvention add even more intrigue to an already loaded Western Conference.
It was only Game 1 — but for basketball fans everywhere, it felt like a preview of what could be the next great Western rivalry season.
