Exciting Matchups Unveiled: 2025-26 NBA Season Schedule Preview
The NBA, in collaboration with its broadcast partners, has unveiled some exciting matchups for the opening week and holiday games of the 2025-26 season. The full regular-season schedule will be officially released later this week, detailing the dates and opponents for 80 out of the 82 games each team will play. The season will kick off on October 21, 2025, with a lineup of thrilling games on NBC and ESPN.
On opening night, fans can look forward to Kevin Durant's return to Oklahoma City as he faces his former team, who will be raising their championship banner. Additionally, a star-studded matchup between Stephen Curry and LeBron James in the Western Conference will captivate basketball enthusiasts. The following day, ESPN will showcase prominent players like Jalen Brunson, Donovon Mitchell, Victor Wembanyama, and the top draft pick, Cooper Flagg.
The NBA Finals rematch will be aired on ESPN on October 23, featuring intense competition between top teams. Peacock will broadcast the first game of the season, highlighting Cade Cunningham's Detroit Pistons against the Cleveland Cavaliers in a double-header matchup. Christmas Day games will be a treat for fans, with matchups on ABC and ESPN, including a Western Conference Finals rematch between the Nuggets and the Timberwolves, a showdown between the Mavericks and the Warriors, and an Eastern Conference clash between the Cavs and the Knicks.
On MLK Day, viewers can enjoy a quadruple header on NBC and Peacock, with one exclusive game on Peacock and the rest available on both platforms. The NBA has also scheduled three international games for the upcoming season, adding a global flavor to the league's exciting lineup. Stay tuned for the official release of the complete 2025-26 NBA schedule to plan your basketball viewing experience for the season ahead.