NBA Preseason Kicks Off
The anticipation is mounting as the NBA kicks off its preseason this Thursday, marking the official start of the 2025-26 basketball season. Fans will first witness a showdown between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks, but this match will take place in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, signaling the league’s commitment to expanding its international presence.
Training Camps and Preseason Schedule
This year, the 76ers and Knicks enjoyed an early start to their training camps to accommodate the unique schedule of their two preseason games overseas. These organizations are not alone in their preparations; across the league, all NBA teams will partake in a total of 65 games leading up to the commencement of the regular season, which begins October 21.
The upcoming preseason schedule is packed, with games being played almost daily. Here’s a glimpse of the initial matches:
- Thursday, Oct. 2: Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks at 12 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 3: Phoenix Suns take on the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 4: The Knicks will again face the 76ers at 11 a.m., followed by a match between the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat at 8 p.m.
Each day leading up to mid-October will feature various teams in action, covering North America and beyond. Notably, another set of international games will highlight the preseason, including a repeat matchup for the 76ers and Knicks on Saturday, Oct. 4, alongside a game between the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat in San Juan. Two days later, fans can look forward to the Denver Nuggets clashing with the Toronto Raptors in Vancouver.
Also scheduled are two contests in China featuring the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets, both set in Macao on October 10 and again on October 12.
Regular Season Opening
The regular season is poised to kick off with its opening night on Tuesday, October 21, featuring the Houston Rockets taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers facing the Golden State Warriors later that evening. The excitement will continue as 24 additional teams begin their regular seasons the following day, solidifying a thrilling start to the NBA year.
