The NBA made its long-awaited return to NBC after more than two decades, kicking off with the opening night doubleheader of the 2025–2026 season on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

In the first game, the Oklahoma City Thunder outlasted the Houston Rockets in double overtime, 131–125. The night began at Paycom Center with the Thunder’s championship ring ceremony and featured the highly anticipated return of former OKC star Kevin Durant, making his debut with the Rockets.

Houston controlled much of the game behind Alperen Şengün’s dominant 39-point, 11-rebound performance, but the Thunder’s resilience — fueled by reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — pushed the contest into two extra periods. Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 35 points and sealed the win with clutch free throws in the final seconds, drawing a foul on a play that also sent Durant to the bench with his sixth foul.

During halftime, Michael Jordan made his highly anticipated debut as a special contributor to NBC Sports. His segment, titled "MJ: Insights to Excellence," featured a taped interview with Mike Tirico where Jordan explained his decision to join the broadcast was an obligation to "pay it forward.”

When asked when the last time he shot a basketball, Jordan said it was when he attended the Ryder Cup and rented a house for the event. The owner of the home requested that Jordan shoot one free throw from the basketball court on the property.

“When I stepped up to shoot the free throw, it was the most nervous I’ve been in years,” Jordan said. 

“The reason being,” Jordan explained, “is those kids heard the stories from their parents about what I did 30 years ago.”

Of course, Jordan made the shot.

In the second game, the Golden State Warriors dominated the Los Angeles Lakers, 118-101, as the Warriors showcased their veteran depth in a decisive road win.

Luka Doncic gave a spectacular performance, scoring 43 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and 9 assists in the absence of an injured LeBron James. For the Warriors, Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 as Golden State was in control for most of the game. In the third quarter, the Warriors got off to a 19-4 run and fought off a comeback attempt led by Austin Reaves. The win gave the Warriors an important early statement victory to kick off their campaign.