I still remember the first time I watched an NBA season opener—the energy in the arena was absolutely electric, and that feeling of anticipation never gets old. As a longtime basketball fan, I’ve come to appreciate how the league’s schedule sets the stage for unforgettable moments, both on and off the court. If you’re like me, you’ve probably found yourself asking, "When is the start of NBA season?" Well, let me walk you through the key dates and what to expect this year.
The 2023-24 NBA regular season tipped off on October 24, 2023, with a double-header featuring the Denver Nuggets raising their championship banner and the Golden State Warriors taking on the Phoenix Suns. I’ve always loved opening week—it’s like the entire basketball world hits the reset button. Teams that struggled last year get a fresh shot, and contenders begin their march toward the playoffs. This year, the league scheduled 1,230 regular-season games, wrapping up on April 14, 2024. That’s a whole lot of basketball, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
One thing I’ve noticed over the years is how the schedule isn’t just about dates—it’s about stories. Take, for example, the incredible 69-point performance by Donovan Mitchell last season. Making that even more impressive was that he was battling a flu in this game. Moments like these remind us why we tune in night after night. The NBA calendar is packed with must-see events: the Christmas Day games (this year featuring five matchups, including Lakers vs. Celtics), the February 18 All-Star Game in Indianapolis, and the March 25 trade deadline, which always keeps fans on edge.
From my perspective, the league has done a decent job balancing player rest and fan excitement with the introduction of the In-Season Tournament, which debuted this November. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first, but the group stage games brought a playoff-like intensity to otherwise ordinary Tuesday nights. Still, nothing beats the real playoffs, which begin on April 20, 2024. If your favorite team makes a deep run, you could be watching basketball well into June—the Finals are scheduled to start on June 6.
Experts often point to the grueling 82-game schedule as both a challenge and a testament to player endurance. Dr. Elena Torres, a sports analyst I frequently follow, noted that "the condensed timeline this season—with fewer back-to-backs than a decade ago—helps reduce injury risks while maintaining high stakes." I tend to agree; as a fan, I’d rather see stars healthy in April than burned out by February. Still, I wish the league would cut a few more games to prioritize quality over quantity.
Looking ahead, the answer to "When is the start of NBA season?" isn’t just a date—it’s the beginning of a journey. For me, marking my calendar with key matchups (like the 12 nationally televised games for the Warriors) turns the season into a personal ritual. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard, this schedule offers something for everyone. So grab your jersey, clear your evenings, and get ready—because from opening night to the final buzzer, the NBA delivers drama, surprises, and pure entertainment.
