The NBA is making its much-anticipated return to NBC this Tuesday, October 21, 2025, marking the first time in over 20 years. The season opener will feature a doubleheader, beginning with the Oklahoma City Thunder hosting the Houston Rockets at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Los Angeles Lakers facing the Golden State Warriors at 10 p.m. ET. Both games will be broadcast on NBC and streamed on Peacock.
NBA Tip-Off Doubleheader Details
The evening kicks off at 6:30 p.m. ET with “NBA Showtime,” setting the stage for the two exciting matchups. The Thunder will raise their championship banner and hand out rings as they welcome the Rockets to the Paycom Center. This game also serves as a debut for Kevin Durant, who returns to Houston after spending the initial nine seasons of his career there.
Analysts and Coverage Team
- Mike Tirico: Play-by-play commentator
- Reggie Miller: Analyst and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer
- Jamal Crawford: Analyst and three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year
- Zora Stephenson: Reporter
The broadcast will feature contributions from a robust team, including host Maria Taylor, along with analysts Carmelo Anthony and Vince Carter.
The Significance of the NBA Returning to NBC
Mike Tirico shared his enthusiasm for covering such high-caliber athletes, emphasizing the value of bringing the NBA back to a broadcast network. Reggie Miller revealed his nostalgic connection to the original broadcasts, expressing his excitement to create new memorable moments for both fans and players.
Sam Flood, the Executive Producer, indicated that the production will evoke the essence of past broadcasts from 1990 to 2002, reconnecting audiences with the signature style that made the NBA on NBC iconic.
Season Predictions and Key Players
Reggie Miller expressed optimism regarding the potential of the Oklahoma City Thunder, comparing them to the historic Chicago Bulls dynasty. He believes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could be a key player akin to Michael Jordan, while Jalen Williams resembles Scottie Pippen.
Analysts also discussed other teams, including the New York Knicks, with hopes for a promising season. Jamal Crawford highlighted the importance of taking a cautious approach with injured players, such as the Celtics’ Jayson Tatum, to maximize long-term success.
Regular Season Broadcast Schedule
This season, NBC Sports will air up to 100 regular season NBA games, ensuring coverage every Tuesday night, along with selected Sunday and Monday games. Notably, NBC will introduce “Sunday Night Basketball” starting on February 1, 2026, post-NFL coverage.
Streaming on Peacock
Beginning October 27, Peacock will host up to three NBA games every Monday night. The platform will also support the Tuesday night doubleheaders as part of its ongoing commitment to enhance viewer access to NBA action.
As the NBA season unfolds, the excitement around its return to NBC builds. Fans can look forward to a unique viewing experience that blends nostalgia with modern broadcasting innovations, all while celebrating the sport’s most thrilling moments.
