Charleston, SC, October 6, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling start to their preseason, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Charlotte Hornets 135-114 in Charleston, SC. Despite the absence of several star players, Aaron Wiggins shined with a game-high 23 points. The Thunder, who recently wrapped up a four-day training camp, showcased their depth and preparation ahead of a busy exhibition schedule, which includes more games leading up to the regular season. The Hornets, led by rookie Kon Knueppel, put up a valiant effort but fell short against the reigning NBA champions.
Charleston, SC
The Oklahoma City Thunder began their preseason on October 5, 2025, by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 135-114 in Charleston, SC. This game marked the Thunder’s first exhibition as the reigning NBA Champions.
Prior to this matchup, the Thunder participated in a four-day training camp, leading into a busy exhibition schedule, which includes a total of six games and a back-to-back series ahead of the regular season.
For this game, the Thunder’s roster featured ten players who did not suit up. Among them, Sorber is out for the entire season. Kenrich Williams is projected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks before reevaluation. Mitchell is recovering from a low-grade ankle sprain sustained during training camp but is not expected to miss extensive time. The Thunder’s management opted to rest several of their key players after intensive training, with ample preseason games still remaining for preparation.
Notable absences included stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Lu Dort, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace, who did not travel with the team for this opening game.
Aaron Wiggins led all scorers with a game-high 23 points, while Chris Youngblood provided impactful contribution with 20 points in just 21 minutes of play. Youngblood showcased his deep shooting skills, going 5 for 8 from beyond the arc. Ousmane Dieng added 17 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1 steal in 33 minutes, demonstrating versatility on the court.
The game took place at a sold-out venue with a crowd of 11,371 in attendance, many of whom showed disappointment at not seeing the star players but still relished the chance to support their team. The Thunder’s success on the court stood out as a highlight of the night.
The Hornets had prepared for this game with prior practice sessions at The Citadel, where their focus was on basketball development and community engagement. Kon Knueppel, the Charlotte’s first-round draft pick and former Duke star, led the Hornets with 18 points, while LaMelo Ball contributed 11 points in 14 minutes of play.
The Thunder’s next preseason game is scheduled for October 6, 2025, against the Dallas Mavericks. This series of games will help the team solidify its roster and strategy as they transition into the regular season.
This exhibition marks the third time that the Hornets have played in Charleston, having previously held games there in 2009 and 2012 against different opponents.
FAQ
When did the Oklahoma City Thunder play their first preseason game?
The Oklahoma City Thunder played their first preseason game on October 5, 2025.
Who did the Thunder play against in their first preseason game?
The Thunder played against the Charlotte Hornets.
What was the score of the game?
The final score was Oklahoma City Thunder 135, Charlotte Hornets 114.
Where did the game take place?
The game took place in Charleston, SC.
How many players did not suit up for the Thunder?
Ten players from the 21-man training camp roster did not suit up for the game.
Who led the Thunder in scoring during this game?
Aaron Wiggins led the Thunder with a game-high 23 points.
When is the Thunder’s next preseason game?
The Thunder’s next game is scheduled for October 6, 2025, against the Dallas Mavericks.
How many fans attended the game?
The game was attended by a sellout crowd of 11,371.
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game Date | October 5, 2025 |
| Opponent | Charlotte Hornets |
| Final Score | Thunder 135, Hornets 114 |
| Location | Charleston, SC |
| Crowd Attendance | 11,371 |
| Leading Scorer for Thunder | Aaron Wiggins (23 points) |
| Next Game | October 6, 2025, against the Dallas Mavericks |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Hornets Foundation Supports Local Youth Technology Initiative
Oklahoma City Thunder Triumphs Over Charlotte Hornets in Preseason Opener
Additional Resources
- SI: OKC Thunder to Sit Eight vs Charlotte Hornets
- Wikipedia: Oklahoma City Thunder
- Oklahoman: Thunder-Hornets Score NBA Preseason Game
- Google Search: Oklahoma City Thunder
- Post and Courier: Charlotte Hornets vs OKC Thunder NBA Preseason
- Google Scholar: Oklahoma City Thunder Preseason
- At The Hive: Hornets vs Thunder Preseason Preview
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NBA
- Times of India: NBA Pre-Season Game 1
- Google News: Thunder Hornets Preseason
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