Player grades: SGA makes it look easy in Thunder's 122-116 preseason win over Hornets

In a thrilling preseason debut, Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault showcased his starting lineup, featuring MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Playing at the Paycom Center for the first time since his NBA championship win, Gilgeous-Alexander made a strong impression by scoring 12 of his 16 points in the first quarter. This performance not only highlights his readiness for the upcoming season but also boosts the team's morale as they prepare for a competitive year ahead.

Clippers fans are buzzing after Chris Paul made his return to the team during a preseason game, showcasing the excitement surrounding the recent roster changes. This moment is significant as it highlights the Clippers' efforts to strengthen their lineup after a competitive playoff run, and fans are eager to see how these changes will impact their performance in the upcoming season.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured an exciting 122-116 victory over the Charlotte Hornets in their preseason matchup, showcasing impressive teamwork and skill. This win is significant as it builds momentum for the Thunder as they prepare for the upcoming season, highlighting their potential and setting a positive tone for fans.

The OKC Thunder secured a solid victory against the Charlotte Hornets in their preseason matchup, marking a successful debut for star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This win is significant as it showcases the team's potential and sets a positive tone for the upcoming season, especially with Gilgeous-Alexander's performance being a focal point for fans and analysts alike.

NBA general managers are optimistic about the Oklahoma City Thunder's chances of becoming the first team to win back-to-back championships in nearly a decade. They also believe that Nikola Jokic will reclaim the MVP title, continuing the trend of international players dominating the award. This is significant as it highlights the growing influence of international talent in the league and sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to feature star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander along with four other teammates in their upcoming preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets. This matchup is significant as it showcases the Thunder's commitment to building a competitive team and gives fans a glimpse of the talent they can expect in the regular season.

The Oklahoma City Thunder has been chosen as the favorite to win the 2026 NBA Finals, according to the league's annual GM survey. Analysts are making bold predictions, including a potential 70-win regular season for the Thunder. This marks a significant moment as they could become the first team to repeat as champions since 2017, highlighting their growing dominance in the league and the excitement surrounding their future.

Alex Caruso recently expressed high praise for his teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, highlighting his exceptional skills and contributions to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning champions. This recognition is significant as it underscores Gilgeous-Alexander's pivotal role in the team's success and their pursuit of back-to-back titles, showcasing the depth and talent within the roster.

As the NBA season approaches, executives are expressing concerns over the league's apron rules, labeling them as 'too harsh.' This sentiment comes after teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder made significant investments in their rosters, including hefty contract extensions for key players. The criticism highlights the ongoing debate about financial regulations in the league and their impact on team strategies, which could affect competitive balance and player movement.

The Dallas Mavericks are buzzing with excitement after their recent preseason game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where rookie Cooper Flagg made a strong impression by scoring ten points and showcasing his defensive skills. This performance has sparked confidence among NBA general managers, who believe in Flagg's potential to become a star. His debut not only highlights the Mavericks' promising future but also sets the stage for an exciting season ahead, making fans eager to see how he develops.

Oklahoma City Thunder veteran Alex Caruso has praised rookie Chris Youngblood for his impressive performance during the preseason, particularly in the game against the Charlotte Hornets where Youngblood scored 20 points. This recognition is significant as Youngblood, who entered training camp on an Exhibit-10 deal, is vying for a two-way contract. Caruso's endorsement highlights Youngblood's potential and the competitive nature of the Thunder's roster decisions, making it an exciting time for fans and the team.

Oklahoma City Thunder veteran Alex Caruso recently praised All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, suggesting he is on a path to a Hall of Fame career. Caruso highlighted Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional skills and approach to the game, emphasizing what makes him a standout player. This endorsement not only boosts Gilgeous-Alexander's profile but also reflects positively on the Thunder as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Oklahoma football is making waves by adopting an NFL-style approach, featuring a general manager who shares equal authority with the head coach and a front office inspired by the Philadelphia Eagles. This transformation is spearheaded by a search for an athletic director led by the former CEO of AT&T, signaling a significant shift in how college football programs can operate. This matters because it could set a new standard for success in college athletics, blending professional strategies with collegiate traditions.

As the World Cup Qualifying match between Iceland and Ukraine approaches, fans are eager to know how to watch the game, the start time, and the betting odds. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament, making it a significant event for soccer enthusiasts.

In a recent game against the Vegas Golden Knights, San Jose Sharks' Jeff Skinner came to the defense of teammate Alex Nedeljkovic after some late-game errors. As the Sharks continue their rebuilding process, it's crucial for the team to learn from these experiences. Skinner's support highlights the importance of teamwork and resilience, especially for a young squad aiming to compete in the Western Conference.

New York Giants rookie Cam Skattebo made headlines after an impressive performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, scoring three touchdowns and celebrating by ripping off his shirt post-game. This bold move not only showcased his excitement but also highlighted the camaraderie with his teammates, including quarterback Jaxson Dart. Such moments are significant as they bring energy and enthusiasm to the team, fostering a strong bond and boosting morale as they aim for success in the season.

Newport County's manager David Hughes is pleased with the official acknowledgment that his team should have received a penalty in their recent match. During the game at Rodney Parade, on-loan forward Nathaniel Opoku was seemingly fouled in the box, but referee Declan Bourne did not award the penalty. The PGMOL has since admitted that Bourne might have erred in his decision. This recognition is significant as it highlights the importance of accurate officiating in football and could impact future matches.

After securing the 2025 constructors' title in Singapore, McLaren's chief, Andrea Stella, has expressed that the team faces its biggest challenge yet with the upcoming 2026 F1 regulation changes. This statement highlights the competitive nature of Formula One and the constant evolution teams must navigate to maintain their success. As regulations shift, teams will need to adapt quickly to stay ahead, making this a pivotal moment for McLaren and the sport.