Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Durant, Curry, and Doncic Headline NBA’s NBC Return Debut
The NBA will officially return to NBC after a 20-year hiatus. The season opener is set for October 20, 2025. It features a highly anticipated matchup between the reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder, who will host the Houston Rockets and Kevin Durant. This game marks Durant’s debut with the Rockets after joining from the Phoenix Suns. The tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, following the pre-game show at 6:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
Key Matchup: Rockets vs. Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder will raise their championship banner before the game. They clinched their first title in Oklahoma City’s history after defeating the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling seven-game series last June. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had an outstanding season, winning both the NBA MVP and Finals MVP titles. He joined an elite group of players to achieve this feat in the same season.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 2025 NBA MVP
- Kevin Durant: 15-time NBA All-Star, making his Rockets debut
- Oklahoma City Thunder: 2025 NBA Champions
- Hall of Fame Contributors: Mike Tirico will host an exclusive interview with Michael Jordan during halftime.
Warriors Take on the Lakers
Following the Thunder-Rockets game, Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors will challenge Luka Dončić and the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 p.m. ET. This matchup will also be available on NBC and Peacock.
Players to Watch
- Stephen Curry: 17th season with the Warriors, two-time NBA MVP
- Luka Dončić: 5-time NBA All-Star, new addition to the Lakers
- Draymond Green: 4-time NBA champion and All-Star
- LeBron James: Out due to injury, did not participate
Broadcast Details
The pre-game show will kick off with NBA Showtime hosted by Maria Taylor, featuring Hall of Famers such as Carmelo Anthony and Vince Carter. The game coverage will include commentary from experienced play-by-play and analyst teams, ensuring a thorough understanding of the action on the court.
Upcoming NBA Coverage on NBC
After the season opener, NBC’s NBA schedule includes several exciting matchups, including:
- Peacock NBA Monday: Begins on October 27 with doubleheader games.
- Coast 2 Coast Tuesday: Debuts on October 28 featuring key matchups.
- NBA Mexico City Game: Scheduled for November 1, showcasing top talent from the league.
The NBA’s return marks a significant moment in sports broadcasting, reconnecting fans with live action and engaging content. El-Balad will provide comprehensive coverage throughout the season.
