With the 2024 Paris Olympics now a memory, the NBA calendar has transitioned into a tranquil period. However, excitement is already brewing for the imminent 2024-25 NBA season. For most teams, training camps are set to commence in October, offering a fresh start and renewed aspirations.
Early Start for Celtics and Nuggets
While the majority of teams will begin their preparations in October, the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets have an earlier schedule. Both teams will start practicing on September 25, driven by their upcoming participation in the NBA Abu Dhabi games. This international preseason showcase will see the Celtics and Nuggets clash in the United Arab Emirates on October 4 and 6.
The busy schedule begins with Media Day on September 24 for both franchises, followed by the first practice sessions on September 25. Meanwhile, the rest of the league will fulfill their media obligations on September 30, before officially kicking off training camps on October 1.
Key Dates and Matchups
As anticipation mounts, the NBA is set to unveil the full schedule for the 2024-25 regular season on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET. The action-packed opening night is slated for October 22, featuring several can't-miss matchups. The Boston Celtics will enjoy a moment of glory by raising their 2024 championship banner and receiving their rings before facing off against the New York Knicks.
Additional opening night showdowns include an exciting encounter between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers. Meanwhile, in Philadelphia, the Milwaukee Bucks will battle the Philadelphia 76ers, offering fans an early glimpse at potential playoff contenders.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. On October 23, the Phoenix Suns will take on the Los Angeles Clippers. This game is particularly significant as it marks the Clippers' debut at their new home, the Intuit Dome. The Dallas Mavericks will visit the Golden State Warriors on November 12, a game that will see Klay Thompson returning to the Bay Area.
Rivalries and Rematches
One of the highlights of the season will undoubtedly be the rematches between the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks. They are scheduled to face each other on January 25 in Dallas, marking their first meeting since the intensely contested 2024 Finals. Their rivalry will be rekindled on February 6 in Boston, a date that also coincides with the NBA Trade Deadline, set for 3 p.m. ET.
Special Events and Season Culmination
Before the regular season gets into full swing, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend is set for October 12-13, celebrating the game's legends and contributors.
The NBA All-Star Weekend is another marquee event on the calendar, scheduled for February 14-16 in San Francisco. This midseason classic provides a needed break and a platform for the league's stars to shine.
The regular season will reach its conclusion on April 13, paving the way for the exciting playoff race. The NBA Play-In Tournament will take place from April 15-18, followed by the commencement of the NBA Playoffs on April 19. Fans can expect drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments as teams vie for the ultimate prize—an NBA Championship.
As the league gears up for another season, the blend of early preparation, key matchups, and special events promises a thrilling journey from the first tip-off to the final buzzer. Basketball enthusiasts around the globe can look forward to a year brimming with competition, triumphs, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.