Next Basketball Game: Date, Teams & How to Watch

By Sarah Miller · March 17, 2029

The next NBA basketball game will take place on October 22, 2025, when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena in a highly anticipated season opener. This marquee matchup marks the official start of the 2025-26 NBA regular season and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

When Is the Next Basketball Game? Key Details

Basketball fans can expect an exciting start to the 2025-26 NBA season with high-profile matchups right out of the gate. The league's official schedule release confirms that the opening night will feature two games, headlined by the Lakers vs. Nuggets showdown. This game carries added significance due to the teams' deep playoff history in recent years.

Why This Game Matters

Season opener for both Western Conference contenders
Possible preview of 2026 Western Conference Finals
Features MVP candidates Nikola Jokić and Anthony Davis
Kicks off new NBA media rights deal with expanded streaming options

Upcoming NBA Schedule Highlights

The NBA has released a partial schedule for the first week of the 2025-26 season, giving fans early insight into key matchups and broadcast plans. Below is a detailed look at the opening week's most notable games.

Date	Matchup	Venue	TV Network	Ticket Availability
Oct 22, 2025	Lakers vs. Nuggets	Crypto.com Arena, LA	ESPN	Low (High Demand)
Oct 22, 2025	Suns vs. Warriors	Chase Center, SF	ESPN	Moderate
Oct 23, 2025	Celtics vs. Knicks	Madison Square Garden	TNT	Low
Oct 24, 2025	Bucks vs. Thunder	Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee	NBA TV	High
Oct 25, 2025	76ers vs. Heat	Wells Fargo Center, Philly	ABC	Moderate

Table data source:NBA Official Schedule, ESPN

The table reveals a strategic scheduling approach by the NBA, prioritizing star power and rivalry games during opening week. National television coverage is reserved for marquee matchups, indicating strong viewership expectations. Ticket availability reflects fan demand, with Lakers-Nuggets already nearing sellout status five months in advance.

How to Watch or Attend

Fans have multiple options to catch the next basketball game live. The Lakers vs. Nuggets game will be televised on ESPN and available via streaming platforms including ESPN+, YouTube TV, and Hulu Live. International viewers can access the game through NBA League Pass.

Ticket Information

Average ticket price: $275 (via Ticketmaster, as of Sept 2025)
Best seats available in upper level sections 300–320
Group packages and VIP experiences still accessible
Mobile tickets only; no physical entry passes issued

Player Matchups to Watch

This game features several high-impact individual battles:

Nikola Jokić vs. Anthony Davis – Interior dominance and playmaking
LeBron James (if active) vs. Aaron Gordon – Veteran savvy vs. defensive intensity
D'Angelo Russell vs. Jamal Murray – Backcourt scoring and ball distribution

With both teams expected to remain elite in the Western Conference, this early-season contest could influence playoff seeding and morale.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Next Basketball Game

When is the next NBA game after the All-Star break?

The next NBA games following the 2026 All-Star Weekend will resume on Friday, February 20, 2026, with a doubleheader on TNT featuring the Boston Celtics vs. Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns.

How can I buy tickets for the next Lakers game?

Tickets for upcoming Lakers games can be purchased through the official team website (lakers.com), Ticketmaster, or verified resale platforms like SeatGeek. Prices vary based on opponent and seat location, with opening night typically starting at $150+.

What time does the next NBA game start?

The Lakers vs. Nuggets game on October 22, 2025, is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM Pacific Time (10:30 PM Eastern). Tip-off times may vary slightly based on pregame ceremonies or broadcast requirements.

Is the next basketball game going to be on TV?

Yes, the first game of the 2025-26 NBA season between the Lakers and Nuggets will be nationally televised on ESPN. Additional regional and international broadcast options are available through local networks and NBA League Pass.

Which teams are playing in the next NBA game?

The next NBA game is scheduled to be between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Denver Nuggets on October 22, 2025. This will be followed by the Phoenix Suns visiting the Golden State Warriors later the same evening.