As a lifelong NBA enthusiast and sports analyst, I’ve always found the preseason to be one of the most intriguing phases of the basketball calendar. It’s that sweet spot where hope feels tangible, new team dynamics begin to form, and we catch our first glimpse of what the season might hold. So, when does the NBA preseason start this year? Typically, it kicks off in late September or early October, with this year’s action expected to begin around October 3rd. But dates aside, what really makes the preseason compelling isn’t just the schedule—it’s the stories unfolding on the court, much like the dramatic turnaround we saw in that TNT vs. Elasto Painters game referenced earlier.
Let’s talk about that game for a moment, because it perfectly illustrates why I love tuning into these early matchups. TNT managed to pull off an overtime win, but honestly, they shouldn’t have even been in that position. Turnovers killed their momentum—seven errors in the fourth quarter alone, which is just staggering. Imagine dominating with a 90-76 lead and eight minutes left, only to let the Elasto Painters claw their way back. It’s a reminder that sloppy ball-handling and mental lapses can undo even the most comfortable leads. In my view, this kind of performance is exactly what teams need to address during the preseason. It’s not just about shaking off rust; it’s about building discipline under pressure, something I’ve seen separate contenders from pretenders time and again.
This year, I expect the NBA preseason to emphasize conditioning and chemistry more than ever, especially with several teams integrating new stars or rookies. For instance, I’m keeping a close eye on how squads like the Lakers and Warriors manage their rotations, given their recent roster tweaks. But beyond the usual storylines, what excites me is the unpredictability. Preseason games often feature experimental lineups and younger players hungry to prove themselves, leading to moments that defy expectations—like a 14-point comeback fueled by forced turnovers. Statistically, teams that average fewer than 12 turnovers per game in the preseason tend to carry that efficiency into the regular season, though I’ll admit I’m pulling that number from memory rather than a spreadsheet. Still, it highlights why coaches stress fundamentals during these games.
Of course, not everyone takes preseason results seriously, and I get that. The wins and losses don’t count in the standings, and star players might see limited minutes to avoid injury. But as someone who’s followed the league for over a decade, I’ve learned that these games offer invaluable insights. They reveal which teams have depth, which players are in peak form, and where strategic adjustments are needed. Take the TNT example: if they’d cleaned up their ball security earlier, they might have avoided overtime altogether. It’s a lesson that applies across the league—small details in preseason can foreshadow bigger trends.
Looking ahead, I’m particularly curious about how rule changes and officiating emphasis might influence the pace of play this preseason. Last year, we saw a push for faster transitions and more three-point attempts, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that continues. Personally, I hope teams don’t overlook the basics, like defensive communication and rebounding, in favor of flashy offense. After all, games are often won or lost in the margins, just like that TNT showdown where a handful of errors nearly cost them the win.
In conclusion, while the NBA preseason officially starts in early October, its real value lies in the narratives it sets in motion. From evaluating rookies to fine-tuning strategies, these games provide a foundation for the grueling months ahead. As we gear up for another thrilling season, I’ll be watching not just for the final scores, but for those subtle moments—like a team learning from its mistakes—that define greatness. Because in basketball, as in that TNT overtime battle, it’s often the early stumbles that lead to later triumphs.