The Oklahoma City Thunder's quest to build a dynasty continues. Fresh off an NBA championship and a dominant 64-win regular season, the defending champs open their 2026 playoff run against a familiar foe: the Phoenix Suns. Phoenix secured the final first-round berth with a gritty Play-In Tournament victory over Golden State, setting up a compelling clash of styles.
During the regular season, the Thunder held a 3-2 edge over the Suns, including a statement 49-point victory in an NBA Cup game. Oklahoma City's success is built on a foundation of stifling defense, leading the league in opponent field goal percentage (43.7%) and ranking second in points allowed (107.9 per game). MVP frontrunner Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (31.1 ppg, 6.6 apg) provides the offensive firepower.
The Suns counter with the ever-dangerous Devin Booker (26.1 ppg), looking to ignite an upset under first-year head coach Jordan Ott. Phoenix aims to recapture the magic of its Finals run five years prior, making this a must-watch series from the opening tip.
Here is the complete schedule for the Thunder vs. Suns first-round series. All times are Eastern.
Game 1: Suns at Thunder | Sunday, April 19 | 3:30 p.m. | ABC
Game 2: Suns at Thunder | Wednesday, April 22 | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN
Game 3: Thunder at Suns | Saturday, April 25 | 10:30 p.m. | ESPN
Game 4: Thunder at Suns | Monday, April 27 | TBD | TBD
Game 5*: Suns at Thunder | Wednesday, April 29 | TBD | TBD
Game 6*: Thunder at Suns | Friday, May 1 | TBD | TBD
Game 7*: Suns at Thunder | Sunday, May 3 | TBD | TBD
*If necessary
With the NBA's expanded broadcast deal, this series will be spread across multiple networks. Games can be found on ABC, ESPN, and NBC, with live streaming available on platforms like DIRECTV, the ESPN app, and Peacock. Gear up for what promises to be a high-intensity playoff battle.