**Thunder's Preseason Opener: Key Performances and Takeaways from 112-107 Win Over Spurs**

In an exciting preseason opener, the Oklahoma City Thunder secured a 112-107 victory against the San Antonio Spurs, offering fans a preview of what's to come this NBA season. The game was filled with promising performances, particularly from Thunder center Chet Holmgren and new veteran acquisitions Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein.

Chet Holmgren, who had previously shared his offseason ambitions with All-Star Paul George on George's podcast, made quite an impression. Holmgren was candid about his desire to dominate mismatches and live up to his potential, and his time on the court reflected this determination. In just nine minutes, Holmgren scored 10 points, going 5-for-5 from the field. His performance included dynamic plays above the rim and savvy moves to evade defenders, notably against Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan. Although Holmgren had to leave the game early due to apparent groin pain, his time on the court showcased his growth and readiness for the season.

The game also showcased OKC’s new additions, Caruso and Hartenstein, who did not start but played crucial roles off the bench. Caruso’s defensive prowess and knack for causing turnovers were evident, as he disrupted the Spurs’ offense repeatedly. Hartenstein, on the other hand, lived up to his reputation as a strong presence in the paint. He contributed eight rebounds and seven assists, while also setting solid screens and facilitating plays. Coach Mark Daigneault highlighted the defensive capabilities of the Holmgren-Hartenstein duo, which impressed during their time on the court together.

The synergy between Caruso and Hartenstein was another highlight. Their on-court chemistry led to several successful plays, including a notable no-look pass from Hartenstein to Caruso. These performances hint at the strategic depth the Thunder may exploit this season.

Additionally, young players like Dillon Jones and Ajay Mitchell took advantage of their preseason stage to show their potential. Jones displayed confidence with assertive scoring, and Mitchell showcased his daring drives through the lane. Coach Daigneault praised their high confidence levels, suggesting that these mid-major talents could carve out meaningful roles as the season progresses.

In summary, the Thunder's preseason opener provided fans with several reasons to be optimistic. Holmgren's assertive play, coupled with the impactful debuts of Caruso and Hartenstein, laid a solid foundation for what promises to be an intriguing season.