When Was the First NBA Game Played?

By Sarah Miller · June 24, 2051

The first NBA basketball game was played on November 1, 1946, between the Toronto Huskies and the New York Knickerbockers at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Ontario. The Knicks won 68–66, marking the beginning of professional basketball under what was then called the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later became the NBA.

Origins of the First NBA Game

The league that would eventually become the National Basketball Association (NBA) began as the Basketball Association of America (BAA) in 1946. The BAA was formed by arena owners in major U.S. cities who wanted to fill empty dates in their venues during hockey off-days. This strategic timing helped establish indoor winter sports entertainment, paving the way for professional basketball's growth.

Key Factors Behind the BAA's Formation

Post-World War II economic expansion enabled investment in professional sports.
Ice hockey arenas needed additional events during off-nights.
College basketball had gained popularity, creating a fan base for higher-level play.
Entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to commercialize basketball in large urban markets.

The Historic Match: Toronto Huskies vs. New York Knickerbockers

This inaugural game set the foundation for modern professional basketball. Though attendance figures vary, estimates suggest around 7,000 spectators were present, a strong turnout for a new sport at the time.

Game Highlights

Date: November 1, 1946
Location: Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, Canada
Final Score: New York Knickerbockers 68, Toronto Huskies 66
Ossie Schectman scored the first basket in league history.
The game featured 11 players per side due to different rules at the time.

Team	Field Goals Made	Free Throws Made	Total Points	Attendance
New York Knickerbockers	25	18	68	7,090
Toronto Huskies	22	22	66	7,090

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows that while the Knicks shot more efficiently from the field, the Huskies excelled at free throws, making all 22 attempts. Despite this, New York’s balanced scoring and early momentum led to victory. The close score highlights the competitive nature of even the earliest professional games.

Evolution from BAA to NBA

In 1949, the BAA merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the NBA. This consolidation brought stronger teams, better talent, and national credibility.

Milestones in Early NBA Development

1946: BAA founded with 11 original teams.
1947: Philadelphia Warriors win the first BAA championship.
1948: Teams like the Minneapolis Lakers join from the NBL.
1949: Merger finalized; league renamed National Basketball Association.
1950s: Introduction of shot clock (1954) revolutionized pace and scoring.

Legacy of the First NBA Game

The November 1, 1946 game laid the groundwork for what would become a global sports phenomenon. It introduced structured professional basketball in large metropolitan arenas, setting a precedent for future leagues across sports.

Cultural and Sporting Impact

Pioneered the model of urban-based professional sports franchises.
Encouraged integration; the NBA drafted its first Black player in 1950.
Spurred innovation in broadcasting and athlete marketing.
Laid foundation for international expansion starting in the 1980s.

About the First NBA Game: Common Questions

When was the first NBA game played?

The first NBA game—then part of the BAA—took place on November 1, 1946, between the Toronto Huskies and New York Knickerbockers. The Knicks won 68–66 in Toronto.

Who scored the first basket in NBA history?

Ossie Schectman of the New York Knickerbockers scored the first points in league history during the opening game on November 1, 1946.

Was the NBA called the NBA in 1946?

No, the league was originally named the Basketball Association of America (BAA). It became the NBA in 1949 after merging with the National Basketball League (NBL).

Where was the first NBA game held?

The first game was held at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, home of the Toronto Huskies.

Why is the 1946 game considered the first NBA game?

Although the NBA name wasn’t adopted until 1949, the league recognizes the BAA’s 1946 season as its official origin because all BAA records and teams are included in NBA history.