After a long and uncertain hiatus, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is set to make its eagerly awaited return on December 22, 2020. The rescheduled season opener will mark the beginning of a condensed 72-game season that promises to be action-packed and full of excitement. As fans and players alike anticipate the return of their beloved sport, let’s take a look at some key dates to mark on your calendar.
December 22, 2020 – Season Opener:
The NBA’s rescheduled season will kick off with two highly anticipated matchups. The Brooklyn Nets will face off against the defending champions, the Golden State Warriors, while the Los Angeles Lakers will take on their city rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers. These captivating games will set the tone for the entire season, with teams eager to prove their mettle and cement their position as early contenders.
March 5-10, 2021 – NBA All-Star Break:
Although the All-Star Game will not be held in its traditional format this season, the league has designated a break in the schedule to allow players some much-needed time off and recognition for their performance. This period will not only give fans a chance to witness the best players in the league but will also serve as a moment of celebration for the sport itself.
May 18-21, 2021 – Play-in Tournament:
Introduced last season in the NBA bubble, the play-in tournament will return this year as an exciting addition to the postseason. Teams ranked between seventh and tenth place in each conference will compete for a spot in the playoffs. This new format adds a thrilling element of competition, as teams on the fringe of qualification will have an extra opportunity to secure their place among the top contenders.
May 22, 2021 – Regular Season Conclusion:
After months of intense battles and gripping matchups, the regular season will come to a dramatic close. The last day of the season will determine the final standings, playoff qualifications, and any last-minute surprises. Players and teams will give their all to enter the postseason on a high note, setting the stage for an exhilarating playoff run.
May 25, 2021 – NBA Playoffs:
The much-anticipated NBA Playoffs will commence, as the top eight teams from the Eastern and Western Conferences begin their journey towards the coveted Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. The playoffs showcase the best of the best, with intense rivalries, astonishing individual performances, and thrilling team battles gracing the court. From nail-biting Game 7s to iconic buzzer-beaters, the playoffs offer basketball enthusiasts a spectacle like no other.
July 8-22, 2021 – NBA Finals:
As the season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on the NBA Finals, where the Eastern Conference champion and Western Conference champion will clash in a best-of-seven series. The culmination of months of hard work and dedication, the NBA Finals is the pinnacle of basketball competition. The winning team will etch their names in history, while players’ performances in the Finals often define legacies and solidify personal achievements.
The return of the NBA promises to bring joy and excitement to millions of fans across the globe. While the 2020-2021 season will undoubtedly be different due to the ongoing pandemic, the league has taken substantial steps to ensure the safety and well-being of players, staff, and fans. With a condensed schedule, the season will be a whirlwind of captivating games and thrilling moments, making it a basketball experience like no other. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness the long-awaited return of the NBA!