Small market team with large spotlights
The Oklahoma City Thunder will win the No. 1 spot in most national television games in the 2025-26 NBA season, tied the break with the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks. All four teams have made 34 national TV appearances. This achievement is extraordinary for Oklahoma City, a small market team based in Tianqiao State.
34 games account for 42% of the Thunder’s schedule, meaning nearly half of the seasons will be played on national broadcasts. Not long ago, these highly anticipated slot machines were absent from Thunder. Even last season, the NBA was slow to adapt to a team that ended up winning the first championship in franchise history.
Play style attracts attention
The rise of the Thunder is not only about winning, but about how they play. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander controls the game with elite mid-range scores. Chet Holmgren blends unique offensive skills with elite edge protection. The versatile wing Jalen Williams showed his scoring ability by scoring 40 points in the NBA Finals.
Oklahoma City’s defense is suffocating, their ball sports are selfless, and their transitional game is electric. These traits make them one of the most exciting teams in the league. This season, casual fans will see them on Opening Night, Christmas and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Break the molds in large markets
Historically, the national television program has benefited the team in major markets. The Lakers, Warriors and Knicks have long been staples of the radio calendar. Oklahoma City’s inclusion at the same level reflects both success on the court and popularity. Despite being inland, Thunder fans have improved TV ratings and created a strong family atmosphere.
This is not the first time the franchise has been established at the core of national attention, but the current group already has a champion. The NBA schedule clearly shows their place among the league’s elite.
Seasons with historical potential
The Thunder won 68 games last season and expectations remain high. They have 34 national TV appearances to showcase their championship defense in one of the most competitive eras in league history.
For Oklahoma City, this season is about more than just basketball. It’s a statement that a small market excellence can be in the same spotlight as the NBA’s famous people.
