If you’re wondering do OKC play today, the answer is a resounding yes. Tonight, Thursday, January 15, 2026, the Oklahoma City Thunder roll into the Toyota Center to face off against the Houston Rockets.
Tip-off is scheduled for 6:30 PM CST (7:30 PM ET).
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Honestly, this isn't just another mid-January game. It's a clash between the best team in the West and a Rockets squad that's actually playing some inspired basketball lately. OKC currently sits at a massive 34-7 record, sitting pretty at the top of the conference standings. They've won four in a row, most recently dismantling the Spurs 119-98. Meanwhile, Houston is holding its own at 23-14, which is good enough for 6th in the Western Conference.
Where to watch the Thunder vs Rockets game
You've got a few options for catching the action tonight. If you're local, FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma (FDSOK) is your go-to. For everyone else, this is a national broadcast night. Amazon Prime Video has the rights for this one.
- Game Time: 6:30 PM CST / 7:30 PM ET
- TV/Streaming: Amazon Prime Video, FDSOK
- Radio: Sports Talk 790 AM (Houston) or the Thunder Radio Network
If you're a cord-cutter, you can also catch the stream through Fubo, though regional blackouts usually apply depending on where you're sitting on your couch.
Why this matchup actually matters
Look, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is playing like a man possessed. He’s averaging 31.9 points per game and basically looks like the MVP frontrunner at this point in the 2025-26 season. But it's not just the Shai show. Chet Holmgren has turned into a defensive nightmare for opponents, averaging nearly two blocks a game.
The Rockets aren't exactly pushovers these days either. Kevin Durant is leading them with about 26 points a game, proving he’s still got that effortless scoring touch even as a veteran presence in Houston. Watching Chet try to guard KD is worth the price of admission alone.
Note: The Thunder are currently 4.5-point favorites according to most sportsbooks. Given their 14-4 road record, they've been incredibly reliable away from the Paycom Center.
Houston has been dominant at home, though, going 12-2 so far this year. Something has to give.
Key players to keep an eye on
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC): He just dropped 34 on the Spurs. He’s the engine.
- Chet Holmgren (OKC): Watch his mobility. For a guy his size, the way he handles the perimeter is kind of insane.
- Alperen Sengun (HOU): He's the hub of their offense, averaging over 6 assists from the center position.
- Amen Thompson (HOU): His athleticism is a problem for most backcourts.
Upcoming Thunder schedule for January 2026
If you can't make it to the TV tonight, OKC is in the middle of a brutal road trip. They’re basically living out of suitcases for the next week.
The schedule looks like this:
- Jan 17: At Miami Heat (8:00 PM CST)
- Jan 19: At Cleveland Cavaliers (1:30 PM CST - MLK Day)
- Jan 21: At Milwaukee Bucks (8:30 PM CST)
- Jan 23: Home vs Indiana Pacers (7:00 PM CST)
Basically, they don't return to Oklahoma City until late next week. This stretch is going to test their depth. They’ve got Ajay Mitchell and Cason Wallace playing heavy minutes off the bench, and they’ll need that energy to survive this travel schedule.
How to get the most out of the game
If you're betting or just playing fantasy, keep an eye on the over/under. It's set at 222.5. Both these teams can score, but OKC has the #1 defense in the league right now, allowing only 108.1 points per game. That defense is why they’re 34-7.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Check your Amazon Prime login before 6:30 PM so you aren't resetting passwords while Shai is hitting his first step-back three.
- If you're using NBA League Pass, remember the national blackout rule—since it's on Prime, the League Pass stream might be delayed or unavailable in certain areas.
- For live updates, the Thunder App is actually decent for real-time box scores if you're stuck at dinner or work.
The Thunder are on pace for a 60-win season. Every game feels like a statement right now. Enjoy the game.