With the 2024 Paris Olympics now in the rearview mirror, the NBA finds itself in a relatively calm period as it gears up for the much-anticipated 2024-25 season. This upcoming season promises excitement and drama, building anticipation among fans and players alike. As teams prepare, specific key dates and events are already circled on the calendar.
Early Preparations for Celtics and Nuggets
While most NBA teams will begin their training camps in October, the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets are starting their preparations early. Both teams will report for practice on September 25, a few days ahead of their counterparts. This accelerated schedule is owed to their participation in the NBA Abu Dhabi games, a pair of preseason matchups set to take place in the United Arab Emirates on October 4 and 6.
The early start also includes Media Day on September 24, where players and coaches will engage with the press. For the rest of the league, media obligations kick off on September 30, followed by the commencement of training camps on October 1.
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement
The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend will take place from October 12-13, celebrating the careers of basketball legends and their contributions to the sport. This annual event always brings an element of nostalgia and reverence, uniting different generations of basketball enthusiasts.
Season Opener and Key Matchups
Fans won’t have to wait long for thrilling matchups, with the NBA unveiling its complete schedule for the 2024-25 regular season on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET. The season tips off on October 22 with several marquee games. Opening night will see the Boston Celtics raising their 2024 championship banner and receiving their rings before hosting the New York Knicks. This ceremony is a nod to their triumph in the previous season and sets a high bar for the games to come.
Also on October 22, the Minnesota Timberwolves will face the Los Angeles Lakers, a matchup that always garners significant attention. Adding to the excitement, the Milwaukee Bucks will clash with the Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia. The following day, October 23, fans can look forward to the Phoenix Suns taking on the Los Angeles Clippers. This game is particularly special as it marks the Clippers' first regular-season game at their new home, the Intuit Dome.
Later in the season, on November 12, the Dallas Mavericks will take on the Golden State Warriors, a game notable for Klay Thompson's return to the Bay Area. The rivalry between these teams adds extra flavor to this encounter.
Rematches from the Finals
The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks will meet again on January 25 in Dallas, their first encounter since the 2024 Finals. The rematch offers an opportunity for both teams to showcase any new adjustments and strategies they have employed since their last showdown. They will square off again on February 6 in Boston, a date that also coincides with the NBA Trade Deadline, set for 3 p.m. ET.
Looking Ahead to All-Star Weekend and Playoffs
The NBA All-Star Weekend is scheduled for February 14-16 in San Francisco, bringing together the league's brightest stars for a celebration of talent and teamwork. As the regular season winds down, it will conclude on April 13, followed closely by the NBA Play-In Tournament from April 15-18, and culminating in the NBA Playoffs starting on April 19.
With these key dates and matchups, the 2024-25 NBA season is poised to deliver unforgettable moments and high-stakes competition, ensuring fans have plenty to be excited about. The upcoming season promises to be nothing short of exhilarating as the teams strive for excellence and new history is written on the court.