Next NBA Game 2024: Start Date & Schedule

By Sarah Miller · September 1, 2029

The next NBA games for the 2024-2025 regular season begin on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, with a doubleheader featuring the Denver Nuggets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors. Games are typically played nightly from Tuesday through Sunday, with marquee matchups often scheduled for weekends or national holidays.

When Are the Next NBA Games Scheduled?

The 2024-2025 NBA season tips off on October 22, 2024, marking the official start of the regular season. After the opening night, games continue almost every day across the week, with increased frequency on weekends. Fans can expect consistent scheduling throughout the season, which runs until April 13, 2025, followed by the playoffs starting April 19, 2025.

Key Dates in the 2024-2025 NBA Season

Opening Night: October 22, 2024
All-Star Weekend: February 14–16, 2025 (San Francisco)
Trade Deadline: February 6, 2025
Regular Season End: April 13, 2025
Playoffs Begin: April 19, 2025
NBA Finals Start: June 5, 2025 (projected)

How to Find Upcoming NBA Game Times

Staying updated on game schedules is essential for fans across different time zones. The NBA follows Eastern Time (ET) for all official broadcasts and scheduling. Most games start between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM ET, though some West Coast matchups may begin later.

Where to Watch NBA Games

National Broadcasts: ABC, ESPN, TNT, NBA TV
Streaming Platforms: NBA League Pass, ESPN+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV
Local Broadcasts: Regional sports networks (RSNs) like Bally Sports, YES Network

Date	Matchup	Time (ET)	Network	Location
Oct 22, 2024	Denver Nuggets vs. OKC Thunder	7:30 PM	ESPN	Paycom Center, OKC
Oct 22, 2024	L.A. Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors	10:00 PM	ESPN	Crypto.com Arena, L.A.
Oct 23, 2024	Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers	7:30 PM	NBA TV	TD Garden, Boston
Oct 24, 2024	Minnesota Timberwolves vs. L.A. Clippers	8:00 PM	TNT	Target Center, Minneapolis
Oct 25, 2024	Milwaukee Bucks vs. Miami Heat	7:30 PM	ABC	Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee

Table data source:1, 2

The table above highlights early-season marquee matchups, many of which are nationally televised. ESPN and TNT dominate the early broadcast schedule, while ABC hosts its first weekend game on October 25. The geographic spread ensures primetime appeal across both coasts.

NBA Schedule Trends and Viewing Tips

The NBA strategically schedules high-profile teams like the Lakers, Celtics, and Warriors for national broadcasts to maximize viewership. Weekday games typically feature two to three matchups, while weekends can have five or more games.

Tips for International Fans

Use the NBA Official App to view localized game times.
Subscribe to NBA League Pass for global streaming access.
Check time zone converters to align ET with local time (e.g., 7:30 PM ET = 12:30 AM UTC+1).

Frequently Asked Questions About the Next NBA Games

When does the 2024-2025 NBA regular season start?

The 2024-2025 NBA regular season begins on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, with two high-profile games: Denver Nuggets at Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors.

What time do NBA games usually start?

Most NBA games start at 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM Eastern Time. West Coast games may begin at 8:00 PM or 10:00 PM ET to accommodate local audiences. National broadcasts often feature staggered start times.

How can I watch NBA games live online?

You can stream NBA games via NBA League Pass, ESPN+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or the NBA app. Some platforms require authentication with a cable subscription, while others offer standalone plans.

Are there any NBA games this weekend?

Yes, multiple NBA games are typically scheduled over weekends, especially during the regular season. Starting October 25, 2024, ABC will broadcast weekly Saturday and Sunday games.

Where can I find the full NBA schedule?

The complete NBA schedule is available on the official NBA website (nba.com/schedule). The site allows filtering by team, date, and broadcast network for personalized planning.