NBA 2026–27 Season Tips Off: Knicks to Raise Championship Banner as LeBron Debuts for 76ers on Opening Night

New York: The NBA’s 81st season begins today, Tuesday, October 20(local time), with a three-game opening night. All three games air on NBC and Peacock in the US. NBC says it is the first time a network has broadcast three NBA tip-off games in one night.

The day starts with a rare matinee. The Detroit Pistons host the Boston Celtics, who finished as the East’s top two teams last season. ESPN notes the opener gives Detroit a national platform to launch Cade Cunningham’s MVP candidacy.

The marquee game is at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks raise their championship banner, celebrating the franchise’s first title in more than five decades, with a ring ceremony scheduled for 6.30 pm. Their opponent is a rebuilt 76ers team. Philadelphia traded Paul George and picks to Boston for Jaylen Brown, then signed LeBron James, who begins his 24th NBA season. Both make their Sixers debuts, and Philadelphia was swept 4-0 by the Knicks in last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals.

The night closes in San Antonio. It is a rematch of the Western Conference finals, which the Spurs won in seven games on the Thunder’s home floor. Victor Wembanyama hosts Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Oklahoma City.

The action continues tomorrow. Giannis Antetokounmpo makes his Heat debut against the Timberwolves, and the Lakers host the Warriors, with Luka Doncic facing Stephen Curry.

In India, fans can watch NBA season through Prime Video NBA league pass.