Thunder schedule unveiled for 2025-26 NBA preseason slate: No Tulsa game for OKC

Rumble waves a flag during a watch party at Paycom Center for game 3 of the Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves in Oklahoma City, on Saturday, May 24, 2025.

The reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder announced its 2025-26 preseason schedule — a game-slate over a 13-day span that features a new destination while missing a familiar stop.

It'll start on Oct. 5 with OKC facing the Charlotte Hornets in Charleston, South Carolina. However, OKC will not play its usual preseason game in Tulsa due to scheduling obstacles.

"While disappointed it couldn’t work out this year, we are committed to seeking preseason games next season and beyond," a Thunder spokesperson told The Oklahoman on Friday. "Our Tulsa fans have a 17-year track record of being loyal and passionate about our team, and we are incredibly grateful for that support."

Even though there will not be a preseason game in Tulsa this season, OKC will continue to plan various year-round community and fan engagement events in the Tulsa area. That includes a Field Trip Day Blue game on January 28, 2026, at BOK Center. 

OKC won its first championship last season. The Thunder has since re-signed its star trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren to long-term deals. It also selected Thomas Sorber (No. 15 overall) and Brooks Barnhizer (No. 44 overall) in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Tickets for preseason games will go on sale at a to-be-determined date after the release of the 2025-26 regular season schedule, which is expected to be announced in August.

Here's a complete look at OKC's 2025-26 preseason schedule:

OKC Thunder 2025-26 preseason schedule

All times are Central

  • Oct. 5: at Charlotte Hornets in Charleston, South Carolina, 4 p.m.
  • Oct. 6: at Dallas Mavericks in Fort Worth, Texas, TBD
  • Oct. 9: vs. Charlotte Hornets, 7 p.m.
  • Oct. 11: at Indiana Pacers, 6 p.m.
  • Oct. 14: at Milwaukee Bucks, 7 p.m.
  • Oct. 17: vs. Denver Nuggets, 7 p.m.

Justin Martinez covers sports for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Justin? He can be reached at [email protected] or on X/Twitter at @Justintohoops. Sign up for the Thunder Sports Minute newsletter to access more NBA coverage. Support Justin's work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com.

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