Ja’Kobi Gillespie Makes NBA Debut with Spurs in Opening Night Loss to Thunder

Oklahoma City Opens 2026 NBA Season With 116-104 Win Over San Antonio

The Oklahoma City Thunder opened the 2026 NBA season with a 116-104 victory against the San Antonio Spurs at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 32 points on Tuesday night, pacing the Thunder to a 1-0 start while handing San Antonio its first loss of the new campaign.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Dominates Season Opener

Gilgeous-Alexander anchored the Oklahoma City offense by shooting 13-of-27 from the field, including 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. Chet Holmgren contributed to the winning effort with 14 points, seven rebounds, four blocks, and two assists.

Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama Lead Spurs Statistics

Stephon Castle paced the Spurs with 24 points, seven rebounds, three steals, and one assist, converting 9-of-21 field goal attempts. Victor Wembanyama added a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, alongside a game-high six blocks. Dylan Harper chipped in 18 points, and D’Aaron Fox recorded 14 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists for San Antonio.

Ja’Kobi Gillespie Makes Professional Debut

Former Tennessee men’s basketball player Ja’Kobi Gillespie made his NBA debut for the Spurs, logging two points in one minute of action after converting one of two field goal attempts. Meanwhile, former Volunteers standout Tobias Harris did not play due to a calf strain.

San Antonio Hosts Houston on Friday

The Spurs return to the floor on Friday night to face the Houston Rockets. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. EDT at the Frost Bank Center.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Opening Night Matchup

Who led all scorers in the Oklahoma City and San Antonio game?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led all scorers with 32 points for the Thunder.

When do the San Antonio Spurs play next?

The Spurs play the Houston Rockets on Friday at 9:30 p.m. EDT at the Frost Bank Center.

How many points did Ja’Kobi Gillespie score in his debut?

Ja’Kobi Gillespie scored two points in one minute of play during his NBA debut for San Antonio.

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