With the 2024 Paris Olympics behind us, the NBA calendar has entered a quieter phase. Yet, the anticipation is already building for what promises to be a thrilling 2024-25 season. Training camps for most teams are set to kick off in October, with two early birds—the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets—reporting on September 25 due to their participation in the NBA Abu Dhabi games.
The Celtics and Nuggets will face off in a pair of preseason matchups in the United Arab Emirates on October 4 and 6. Both teams commence their practice sessions on September 25, following Media Day on September 24. This accelerated schedule not only provides an international showcase but also offers a crucial early season test for both teams.
The Countdown to Opening Night
While the Celtics and Nuggets will be busy overseas, the rest of the league will follow a more traditional timeline. Media obligations for these teams begin on September 30, and training camps commence on October 1. The NBA will unveil its complete 2024-25 regular-season schedule on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, setting the stage for another exciting year of professional basketball.
Opening night, set for October 22, promises a mix of nostalgia and new beginnings. The Boston Celtics will celebrate their 2024 championship victory by raising their banner and receiving their rings before taking on the New York Knicks. This emotional moment will officially mark the Celtics' quest to defend their title.
Other high-profile matchups on opening night include the Minnesota Timberwolves facing the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Milwaukee Bucks clashing with the Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia, ensuring that fans have plenty to look forward to immediately.
More Key Dates on the NBA Calendar
The action doesn’t stop after the first few games. On October 23, the Phoenix Suns will face the Los Angeles Clippers in what promises to be another marquee matchup. Notably, this game will be the Clippers' first regular-season contest at their new home, the Intuit Dome.
Fast forward to November 12, when the Dallas Mavericks take on the Golden State Warriors in what is always a highly anticipated contest. This game marks Klay Thompson's return to the Bay Area, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the event.
One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the season happens on January 25, when the Celtics and Mavericks lock horns in Dallas for the first time since the 2024 Finals. The two teams will meet again on February 6 in Boston, a day that also marks the NBA Trade Deadline at 3 p.m. ET.
Milestone Events and the Playoff Picture
October 12-13 will see the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend, an event that honors the legends of the sport. Following that, NBA All-Star Weekend is scheduled for February 14-16 in San Francisco, where the best players will showcase their talents on one of basketball’s biggest stages.
The regular season will draw to a close on April 13, setting the stage for the NBA Play-In Tournament from April 15-18. This relatively new format has added an extra layer of excitement and competition, ensuring that the scramble for playoff spots goes down to the wire. The NBA Playoffs will follow shortly after, starting on April 19, when the journey to the next champion officially begins.
As the NBA prepares for another season of electrifying basketball, fans have numerous dates to circle on their calendars. From Media Day to the climactic opening night and all the pivotal games that follow, the 2024-25 season promises to be a captivating journey full of storylines and unforgettable moments.