Oklahoma City Thunder 2025-26 season preview: Can the champs snap the repeat curse?

Manchester City is set to face Everton at the Etihad Stadium this Sunday in a highly anticipated match of the 2025-26 Premier League season. With City in excellent form, fans are excited to see if they can maintain their winning streak against a competitive Everton side. This match is crucial as it could impact the standings significantly, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has made history by becoming one of only two guards in NBA history to average over 30 points per game while maintaining a 50 percent field goal percentage for three consecutive seasons. This remarkable achievement not only highlights his exceptional talent but also places him among the elite players in the league, making it a significant milestone for both him and the Thunder.

Joel Embiid recently shared his thoughts on how he fits into the Philadelphia 76ers' new offensive system for the upcoming 2025-26 season. His insights are crucial as they highlight the team's strategic direction and his role in maximizing their performance. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this new approach will enhance the team's dynamics and potentially lead to greater success.

The New York Knicks have received unexpected support for the 2026 NBA Finals from a longtime rival, marking a significant moment for the team that hasn't reached the championship round since 1999. This endorsement could boost the Knicks' morale and fan engagement as they aim for a successful season, highlighting the evolving dynamics in the league.

Carmelo Anthony, a respected voice in sports after his NBA retirement, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming 2025-26 season, predicting a thrilling race for the Most Valuable Player award. His insights matter as they reflect the expectations and excitement surrounding the league, highlighting potential standout performances that could shape the season.

Steve Parkin is optimistic about his former club, Stoke City, as they aim for a return to the Premier League. With Wrexham set to face Stoke at the bet365 Stadium, Parkin highlights Stoke's strong start in the Championship, currently sitting fifth. This is significant as it reflects the club's potential to reclaim its place among the top teams in English football, which would be a major boost for fans and the community.

Khalid Al Ghannam is making waves in the 2025-26 Roshn Saudi League as a standout winger for Al Ettifaq. His electrifying performances have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike, especially with Al Hilal looming on the horizon. This early success not only boosts his career prospects but also highlights the growing competitiveness of the league, making it an exciting time for Saudi football.

In an exciting preseason finale, the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their resilience by coming back to secure a thrilling game-winner against the Denver Nuggets. Despite trailing for most of the match, the Thunder's performance, particularly from Ousmane Dieng, highlights their potential as they prepare for the upcoming season. This victory not only boosts team morale but also sets a positive tone for their campaign ahead.

Freddy Peralta, the ace of the Milwaukee Brewers, expressed a mix of pride and uncertainty about his future with the team after their disappointing exit from the 2025 postseason, following a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS. His candid reflections highlight the emotional connection players have with their city and the harsh realities of professional baseball, where success can be fleeting. This moment is significant as it raises questions about the team's direction and Peralta's role moving forward.

Texas Tech's quarterback Will Hammond is set to start in place of Behren Morton for the upcoming game against Arizona State. This change comes as Hammond has seen action in five of the Red Raiders' six games this season, showcasing his readiness to step up. The decision highlights the team's strategy as they aim to secure a win in this crucial matchup.

Ange Postecoglou has been dismissed from his role as head coach of Nottingham Forest after only eight games, following a disappointing 3-0 loss to Chelsea. This swift decision highlights the club's urgent need for improvement and stability, as they seek to turn around their fortunes in the league. The change in leadership raises questions about the team's direction and the challenges ahead.

Ethan Grunkemeyer is set to make his debut as the starting quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions in their upcoming game against Iowa. This is an exciting moment for both Grunkemeyer and the team, as fans are eager to see how he performs in this crucial matchup. His first start could be a pivotal moment in the season, showcasing his skills and potential to lead the team.

The Scarlets continue to struggle in the United Rugby Championship, remaining winless after a disappointing loss to the Lions in Johannesburg. This defeat keeps them at the bottom of the league, raising concerns about their performance and future prospects in the tournament.

Afghanistan has decided to withdraw from an upcoming cricket series following reports that local players were killed in a recent airstrike in Pakistan. This decision highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises concerns about the safety of athletes amidst military operations. The Pakistani government claims the strike was aimed at militants, denying any civilian casualties, but the impact on sports and community morale is significant. This situation not only affects the cricketing ties between the two nations but also underscores the broader implications of conflict on cultural exchanges.