In the wake of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the NBA calendar has entered a relatively quiet period, yet the anticipation for a thrilling 2024-25 season is palpable. With training camps set to kick off in October for most teams, the buzz is already building. Notably, the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets will start their preparations earlier than the rest, reporting for practice on September 25.
This accelerated schedule is attributed to their participation in the NBA Abu Dhabi games, where the Celtics and Nuggets will showcase their talents in a pair of preseason matchups in the United Arab Emirates on October 4 and 6. Before these intense practice sessions begin, Media Day on September 24 will set the stage, offering fans and media a glimpse into the new season's dynamics for both teams.
For the rest of the league, media obligations commence on September 30, followed by the start of their training camps on October 1. The excitement will reach new heights as the NBA formally unveils its complete 2024-25 regular season schedule on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET. Mark your calendars, as the new NBA season officially tips off on October 22.
Opening night promises an electrifying start. The Boston Celtics will hoist their 2024 championship banner and receive their rings before facing off against long-time rivals, the New York Knicks. This night of celebration for the Celtics marks the beginning of their title defense. Elsewhere, the Minnesota Timberwolves will clash with the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Milwaukee Bucks will battle the Philadelphia 76ers in a highly anticipated showdown in Philadelphia.
Key Dates and Highlights
The following evening, on October 23, the Phoenix Suns will go head-to-head with the Los Angeles Clippers. This game will be particularly significant for the Clippers as it marks their first regular-season game at their new home, the Intuit Dome.
As the season progresses, marquee matchups are sprinkled throughout the calendar. One to watch is on November 12, when the Dallas Mavericks take on the Golden State Warriors. Notably, this will be Klay Thompson's return to the Bay Area, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the game.
The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks will cross paths again on January 25 in Dallas, in what will be their first meeting since the 2024 Finals. Basketball enthusiasts can also look forward to their rematch on February 6 in Boston, a date that also coincides with the NBA Trade Deadline at 3 p.m. ET.
Special Events
Ahead of the season opener, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend is set to take place on October 12-13, celebrating the legends of the game who have left an indelible mark on basketball history.
Another highlight on the basketball calendar is the NBA All-Star Weekend, scheduled for February 14-16 in San Francisco. This mid-season extravaganza promises to bring together the league's brightest stars in a celebration of skill, competition, and entertainment.
Season's End and Beyond
The regular season will conclude on April 13, paving the way for the NBA Play-In Tournament from April 15-18. Teams will battle for their postseason lives in this high-stakes mini-tournament, leading into the NBA Playoffs, which begin on April 19.
The 2024-25 NBA season is shaping up to be an unforgettable journey filled with drama, competition, and memorable moments. From the early start of practice for the Celtics and Nuggets to the culmination of the playoffs, fans around the globe can look forward to another exhilarating year of basketball.