NBA's 2020-2021 campaign commences with the Rockets facing the Thunder on October 21st
2025-26 NBA Schedule: A Star-Studded Season Awaits
The 2025-26 NBA season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a packed schedule of notable games and events. Here are some highlights to look forward to.
Opening Night (October 21, 2025)
The season kicks off with a bang, as the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder host the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ET. This game is particularly significant as Kevin Durant, who left the Thunder for the Rockets in a blockbuster trade last month, faces his former team. The Thunder will also raise their championship banner before the game. Later in the evening, the Los Angeles Lakers host the Golden State Warriors at 10 p.m. ET, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
Christmas Day (December 25, 2025)
While specific games on Christmas Day were not disclosed, the NBA traditionally schedules high-profile rivalry and superstar matchups on this day. The 2025-26 schedule is no exception, with a five-game Christmas Day slate expected.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20, 2026)
Details on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day games for the 2025-26 season are not yet available, but historically, the NBA schedules marquee matchups on this day featuring top teams and stars.
Return Games
The season will see several star returns, including Kevin Durant's return to Phoenix as a Houston Rocket on November 24 and Anthony Davis' return to Los Angeles as a Dallas Maverick on November 28.
High-Profile Matchups and Rivalries
The 2025-26 season promises several high-profile games, such as the Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs on October 22, featuring the debut of the Spurs' second choice, Dylan Harper, against rookie No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg. Other noteworthy matchups include the Warriors vs. Rockets on November 26, Lakers vs. Mavericks on January 24 (ABC), and additional Lakers vs. Mavericks meetings on February 12 and April 5.
Must-Watch Games
Some must-watch games announced so far include the Pistons vs. Rockets on October 24, featuring brothers Ausar Thompson and Amen Thompson, and the Rockets at Warriors on April 5, a late regular-season game with playoff implications.
Broadcast Partners
The 2025-26 season marks the NBA's return to NBC/Comcast and Amazon broadcasts, adding significance to games shown on those platforms.
In summary, the opening night (Oct. 21) features the Thunder vs. Rockets and Lakers vs. Warriors as the premier events. While Christmas Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day schedule details are not yet available, the season includes several high-profile games involving star returns, rookie showdowns, and rivalry matchups across the year. Stay tuned for more updates as the season approaches!
The 2025-26 NBA season will see an India-based basketball fan's dream come true when the NBA schedule announces games featuring Indian teams such as the National Basketball Academy of India's representative squad, possibly matching up against star-studded NBA teams, potentially including the Houston Rockets or the Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, the NBA's high-profile matchups may also include international games showcasing basketball talent from around the globe, adding more excitement to the already anticipated 2025-26 season.
