As the Oklahoma City Thunder gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, the excitement surrounding the team is palpable. Fresh off their first-ever NBA championship, the Thunder are focusing their efforts on defending their title, with key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge.
Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, has made it clear that the team's new goal is to avoid complacency after their historic win. "It would suck to lose the NBA championship in 2026, so that’s the new focus," he stated, emphasizing a commitment to greatness. The Thunder's roster remains largely intact, maintaining core players who were instrumental in their success last season, including the likes of Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Hartenstein. Wiggins, who signed a lucrative five-year contract, is expected to build on his breakout performance, where he averaged a career-high 12 points per game.
One of the biggest questions heading into the training camp revolves around the development of Chet Holmgren. After a promising rookie season hampered by injury, Holmgren's growth could significantly impact the Thunder's offensive capabilities. Coaches and analysts alike are optimistic that if he can elevate his game, he could become an All-Star caliber player.
Depth will also be crucial this season, as the Thunder aim to navigate the challenges of a demanding schedule, which includes a league-leading 34 nationally-televised games. With the team's strong performance last season, they demonstrated resilience, overcoming injuries and showcasing impressive depth in their roster.
Meanwhile, the Thunder's commitment to the community remains steadfast. The organization has been lauded for its role in healing Oklahoma City following historical tragedies, emphasizing their position as more than just a basketball team but as a vital part of the local fabric.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on the Thunder to see if they can harness their momentum from last season and continue to grow as a team. With a roster filled with talent and a shared vision of success, Oklahoma City is ready to take on the challenge of defending their championship title.