With the 2024 Paris Olympics now part of history, the NBA has entered a more tranquil period on its calendar. However, anticipation is already mounting for what promises to be a thrilling 2024-25 season. This excitement is particularly palpable for the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets, who will be reporting to training camp earlier than most teams due to their participation in the NBA Abu Dhabi games.
Early Start for Celtics and Nuggets
The majority of NBA teams will commence their training camps in October, but the Celtics and Nuggets are set to hit the ground running a bit sooner. Both teams are scheduled to start practice on September 25, giving them a head start in preparations. This accelerated schedule is part of their commitment to the NBA Abu Dhabi games, where they will engage in a pair of preseason matchups on October 4 and 6 in the United Arab Emirates.
Before the action kicks off, September 24 is a significant date marked as Media Day for both the Celtics and Nuggets, providing the first opportunity for fans and media alike to get a glimpse of the teams and hear from players and coaches ahead of the new season. The rest of the league will follow suit with their media obligations starting September 30, leading into the start of training camps on October 1.
Comprehensive NBA Schedule Unveiling
The NBA is set to unveil its complete schedule for the 2024-25 regular season on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET. As the league’s fans eagerly await this highly anticipated announcement, significant dates and matchups have already been highlighted, including the opening night on October 22. The evening will be particularly memorable for the Boston Celtics, who will not only commence their season but also raise their 2024 championship banner and receive their rings before hosting the New York Knicks.
The same night will feature a showcase between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers, as well as a clash between the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia. The excitement continues on October 23 with a matchup between the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Clippers. This game will be notable as it marks the Clippers' first regular-season contest at their new home, the Intuit Dome.
Key Season Matchups
As the season progresses, several key matchups stand out. On November 12, the Dallas Mavericks will face off against the Golden State Warriors, a game that will see Klay Thompson return to the Bay Area. Another notable encounter comes on January 25 when the Boston Celtics meet the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas. This game holds extra weight as it will be their first meeting since the 2024 Finals. They will clash again on February 6 in Boston, a date that coincides with the NBA Trade Deadline at 3 p.m. ET.
Special Events and Season Timeline
Among the special events slated for the season, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend is set for October 12-13, an occasion to celebrate the accomplishments of the sport’s legends. NBA All-Star Weekend will be another highlight, scheduled for February 14-16 in San Francisco, promising a festive and competitive atmosphere.
The regular season will draw to a close on April 13, setting the stage for the NBA Play-In Tournament from April 15-18. Following this, the NBA Playoffs will kick off on April 19, as teams battle for the ultimate prize in basketball.
As the new season approaches, fans around the globe are gearing up for a year filled with high-stakes games, thrilling performances, and unforgettable moments. From the early start of the Celtics and Nuggets to the marquee matchups and special events, the 2024-25 NBA season is poised to deliver excitement and excellence on every front.