OKC Thunder Earn Another National TV Slot With Pistons Rematch

The Oklahoma City Thunder are once again earning the National TV treatment as ESPN picks up the rematch between the Thunder and Detroit Pistons.

Mar 15, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) is defended by Detroit Pistons forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (8) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

The Oklahoma City Thunder came into the season with just 15 Nationally Televised games as the reigning No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and the popular pick to win the West after summer blockbusters.

That number felt low at the time, and was, with the OKC Thunder missing out on key dates such as NBA Opening Night and Christmas Day. Though, with the League's ability to flex its National TV slate –– and even the help of the NBA Cup Tournament –– the Oklahoma City Thunder are now slated for 23 Nationally Televised tilts. That number only lags behind the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics.

On Friday it was announced by the league that the NBA would shift its ESPN schedule for April 2 to move the Oklahoma City Thunder clash with the Detroit Pistons into its night cap with a tip-off time now slated for 8:30 PM CT.

The Thunder and Pistons played a tight game over the weekend that Oklahoma City was able to grit out on the road with a physical style of play and superstar takeover from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Detroit has been one of the best stories of the NBA season and Oklahoma City has already clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, becoming the second youngest team to pull off that feat behind last year's Thunder squad.

This game will feature a late tip-off inside the Paycom Center but a welcomed addition to the National TV slot ahead of an interesting NBA Playoff run on deck.

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