Kevin Durant had a strong debut with the Houston Rockets, posting 23 points and nine rebounds, but he admitted two late-game mistakes cost his team Tuesday night.
“I missed the free throw (in regulation) and I fouled (SGA) at the end to put them up 1,” Durant said. “I think those two plays are the reason we lost.”
The Rockets fell 125–124 in double overtime to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who celebrated their 2025 championship with banner and ring ceremonies before tipping off the season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points, hitting two free throws with 2.3 seconds left in the second OT to seal the win.
Durant, returning to Oklahoma City for the first time as a Rocket, received heavy boos throughout the night. He acknowledged the fans’ reaction but also highlighted the support he still feels from the city. “Walking onto the court, at the hotel, walking around town, every time I come here, it’s just so much love and respect,” he said.
The game featured several high-pressure moments, including Durant fouling out in the final seconds and Jabari Smith Jr. missing a potential game-winner at the buzzer. Durant also attempted a timeout in the first overtime that went unacknowledged, allowing the contest to continue into a second extra period.
Houston’s Alperen Sengun had a standout performance, scoring 39 points with 11 rebounds and seven assists, including five three-pointers. Amen Thompson added 18 points, and Smith contributed 16, but the team could not overcome Oklahoma City’s late surges.
Chet Holmgren added 28 points and seven rebounds for the defending champions, while Ajay Mitchell chipped in 16 points, including a four-point play just before halftime. Despite trailing by one at halftime, the Rockets could not match the Thunder’s efficiency in the second half.
