2024 NBA Preseason Guide: Key Dates, Game Times, and How to Watch

2024 NBA Preseason Guide: Key Dates, Game Times, and How to Watch

The NBA is gearing up for another exciting season, and the 2024-25 preseason is the first step in that journey. Fans get their initial taste of action, and teams start testing their lineups and strategies before the regular season. While these games don’t count toward the final standings, they offer valuable insights into what we can expect once the real competition begins.

This guide will walk through the essential details, including critical dates, notable matchups, rising stars, and how to catch every game.

Key Dates for the 2024 NBA Preseason

The 2024 NBA preseason officially kicks off on October 4 and runs through October 18. This short but action-packed period gives teams time to prepare for the regular season, which begins on October 22. Preseason games are spread over several cities, including international venues like Abu Dhabi and Montreal, adding global excitement to the buildup. Several key matchups are lined up during this period, offering fans exciting games and an early opportunity to gauge the NBA odds.

Notable Matchups to Watch

Several preseason matchups stand out as must-watch events. One of the most anticipated games is between the Golden State Warriors and LA Clippers on October 5 in Honolulu. This game offers a chance to see some of the league’s top stars head-to-head in a relaxed setting, giving fans a preview of potential Western Conference showdowns.

International fans have reason to be excited as well. The NBA continues its tradition of taking games overseas, with matchups like the Boston Celtics vs. Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns vs. LA Lakers in Abu Dhabi. These games will showcase the NBA’s global reach and offer international fans to see their favorite NBA teams. They’ll also see elite athletes and NBA superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Nikola Jokic in action.

Another exciting matchup is the Milwaukee Bucks vs. Detroit Pistons on October 6, broadcast on ESPN. This game will first examine how the Bucks, led by their star players, will perform this season and how the Pistons’ young roster is developing.

Rising Stars and Rookie Watch

The preseason is a prime opportunity to see the league’s newest talent. Rookies who impressed during Summer League will have a chance to prove themselves on a bigger stage. Zaccharie Risacher, the 2024 No. 1 draft pick for the Atlanta Hawks, is one to watch. His Summer League performance was solid, but the preseason will be his first real test against established NBA talent.

Other rookies, like Rob Dillingham of the Minnesota Timberwolves and  Reed Sheppard of the Houston Rockets, also grabbed attention during the Summer League. Their preseason transition will be closely followed, especially as they start competing for playing time and a spot in the regular rotation. These young players could bring a fresh dynamic to their teams, making the preseason a critical time for development.

Veterans looking to return to form or adapt to new teams will also be under the spotlight. Fans should watch how new lineups and rotations unfold, particularly in games where rookies share the court with seasoned players.

How to Watch the 2024 NBA Preseason

Watching the 2024 NBA preseason games is easy, with various options available. Many games will be broadcast on major sports networks like ESPN and TNT, while others will be available through local sports channels and team-specific broadcasters. Streaming services also offer ways to catch the action on the go, with NBA League Pass providing comprehensive coverage of both preseason and regular-season games.

For fans outside the U.S., international broadcasters will carry select preseason matchups, particularly games played in locations like Abu Dhabi and Montreal. Checking local listings is the best way to stay informed about where and when games will be shown.

Nationally televised games, such as Milwaukee vs. Detroit on October 6 and Phoenix vs. Denver on October 13, will be highlighted across networks, offering fans a chance to see star players and anticipated matchups. ESPN and TNT will provide coverage for many key games, giving fans access to some of the most exciting preseason matchups.

Local stations will cover most of the other games, so checking your regional sports networks or team websites will help you find out how to tune in. Whether watching from home, on your phone or a streaming device, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the preseason action.

Conclusion

The 2024 NBA preseason is exciting, offering fans the chance to see their favorite teams and players in action before the regular season begins. While the results might not always predict future success, the games provide valuable insights into team chemistry, new talent, and strategic changes.

As the NBA grows its global reach, the preseason offers a preview of what’s to come in the 2024-25 season. Whether watching the league’s top stars or keeping an eye on emerging talent, the preseason is the perfect way to prepare for another thrilling NBA year.