The 2025–2026 NBA season officially tips off today, Tuesday, October 21, ushering in a new era of excitement, blockbuster trades, and championship aspirations. NBA fans can catch opening night action with a doubleheader broadcast on NBC and Peacock, setting the stage for a season packed with intrigue, star power, and unforgettable moments.

NBA Opening Night Schedule

Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

• Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
• Notable: Tonight, the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder will celebrate their title with a championship ring ceremony and banner raising, a moment that promises to electrify the home crowd. They will then face a retooled Houston Rockets squad, now featuring superstar Kevin Durant. The Thunder will be without guard Jalen Williams, who continues his recovery from offseason wrist surgery, adding a layer of challenge to their opening matchup.

Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers

• Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
• Notable: Western Conference rivalries are back, and this season-opening clash features a transformed Lakers roster highlighted by Luka Dončić, acquired in a blockbuster trade from Dallas. LeBron James will miss the game due to a sciatica issue, making Dončić’s debut even more crucial. The Warriors, meanwhile, will showcase Jimmy Butler in his first full season with the team following his mid-season acquisition last year. Fans can expect a high-octane showdown of elite talent and strategic adjustments.

Other NBA Highlights

• Record International Presence: For the first time in NBA history, team rosters will feature a record 135 international players, underlining the league’s growing global influence and diversity of talent.
• WNBA Contract Talks: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed confidence that the WNBA will reach a new collective bargaining agreement with players, whose current contracts expire on October 31. Silver emphasized that players can expect “big” raises, reflecting the league’s commitment to growth and parity.
• Pacers’ Guard Extension: The Indiana Pacers have agreed to a two-year, $40.4 million contract extension with guard Aaron Nesmith, ensuring the young scorer remains a key piece of the team’s future.
• Grizzlies Injury Update: Guard Ty Jerome is set to miss four weeks following a calf strain sustained during preseason, a setback that could impact the Grizzlies’ rotation and early-season strategy.

For fans looking to show their team pride this season, Pro Merch offers a wide array of NBA gear, from jerseys and hats to collectibles that celebrate your favorite players and teams. Whether you’re cheering from home or courtside, there’s something for every fan to elevate their game-day experience. Browse the full selection of official NBA merchandise at Pro Merch.

The 2025–2026 season promises to be one for the history books, with high-profile trades, rising international stars, and thrilling matchups from coast to coast. Opening night is just the beginning, and fans can gear up in style with Pro Merch to make every moment unforgettable.