Oklahoma City Thunder, current champion and leader of Conferência Oeste with 29 wins and only 5 losses, visits Golden State Warriors at Chase Center, in São Francisco, this Friday, January 2, 2026 at 10:00 pm (Califórnia local time). The match marks the start of the year for both teams, with Thunder coming in strong after three consecutive wins and Warriors looking to consolidate their position in the playoffs, occupying eighth place with 18 wins and 16 setbacks. The clash highlights the duel between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the second best scorer in the league with an average of 32.1 points per game, and Stephen Curry, ninth in the league with 28.7 points on average.
The Warriors have the support of fans at home, where they have won ten of their last local games, but face doubts in the squad. Curry is listed as questionable with a sprained left ankle, while Draymond Green is rested and other players like De’Anthony Melton are of uncertain status. Together with the Thunder, the team maintains its defensive dominance, allowing on average just 107.5 points per game, the best mark in the NBA.
First game of 2026 OTW 🔜
📺 FanDuel Sports Network
📻 @sportsanimal pic.twitter.com/GmV67Wz2kD— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) January 2, 2026
Where to watch live and streaming
The game between the Golden State Warriors and Oklahoma City Thunder will be broadcast live on Brazil by Amazon Prime Video, which holds exclusive rights to several NBA regular season games. Fans can also follow the NBA League Pass platform, the league’s official streaming service, available via direct subscription or integrated packages such as UOL Play and the Vivo app. It is not broadcast on traditional channels open or closed for this specific comparison.
In addition to streaming options, League Pass offers on-demand replays and real-time stats. Coverage includes narration in Portuguese for select games, making them easier for Brazilian audiences to follow.
Probable lineups and coaches
The Warriors, led by coach Steve Kerr, should field Stephen Curry (if confirmed), Brandin Podziemski, Jimmy Butler. The team relies on the strength of its three-point shots, leading the league in attempts and conversions.
Thunder, coached by Mark Daigneault, enters with its established starting lineup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luguentz Dort, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. The solid defense and balanced attack, averaging 122 points per game, are the main weapons.
Curry and Gilgeous-Alexander are the individual highlights. The Warriors point guard tries to maintain his efficiency in long range shots, while the Canadian Thunder is the leader in points and assists.
History of clashes and last matches
In the last five meetings, the Thunder have won three times, including a convincing 126-102 victory in November 2025. The Os Warriors, however, have recently triumphed in tighter games.
The Warriors come from six victories in the last ten games, with an average of 121.6 points scored. Thunder also recorded six wins in ten games, averaging 120 points.
- Warriors last five games: wins over average teams and close losses.
- Thunder’s last five games: Positive streak with wide margins in two matchups.
Game location and interesting facts
Chase Center, in São Francisco, hosts the duel with a capacity of around 18 thousand fans. The modern arena offers interactive experiences and is known for its vibrant atmosphere on NBA nights.
Tickets are available via the official Warriors website or platforms such as Ticketmaster, with prices varying by location. The match pits the best defense in the league (Thunder) against the Warriors’ perimeter attack.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the featured scorer, while Curry represents the Warriors title tradition.
Predictions and hypotheses
Analysts point to favoritism for Thunder, due to the superior campaign and efficient defense. Palpites indicate a guest victory with a moderate margin, with a possible exceeding of the total score, given the offensive power of both teams.
The Warriors could surprise at home if Curry performs at full capacity. The match promises balance on the perimeter and intense contrasts in the area.
Thunder tries to maintain its isolated lead in Conferência Oeste. Os Warriors aims to move up the rankings and avoid slipping against their direct rivals.
Top scorers and highlights of the season
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the way with consistent performances, including games over 40 points. Stephen Curry keeps his average high despite occasional injuries.
Other names like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren contribute to the Thunder. Nos Warriors, Jimmy Butler adds defensive and scoring versatility.
The 2025-26 season highlights the Thunder’s dominance in collective defense. Os Warriors relies on individual talent to compensate for irregularities.
