NBA 2025-26 Season: FAQs, Key Dates, Emirates NBA Cup Information

NBA Schedule Release presented by Ticketmaster is here, which means the 2025-26 NBA season is just around the corner. As we head into the new season, we’re making sure that you have all the information you need before each game day.

From how to buy NBA tickets to how to sell them if your plans change and you can’t make the game, we cover it all in the FAQ below.

Buying Tickets | Selling Tickets | Refunds

When does the 2025-26 NBA season begin?

The start of the 2025-26 NBA regular season (opening night) will be on October 21, 2025. Be there to catch your favorite team live all season long and get NBA tickets at Ticketmaster, the Official Ticket Marketplace of the NBA. Check out the Opening Week schedule presented by Ticketmaster below:

 

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How many games will be played during the 2025-26 NBA season?

There will be 82 regular-season games during the 2025-26 NBA season.

When is the 2026 NBA All-Star Game?

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is scheduled for February 15, 2026. It will be held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

When do the NBA Playoffs start?

The 2025-26 NBA regular season will end on April 12, 2026, and the NBA Playoffs will begin shortly after. Check back towards the end of the regular season for updated information.

When is the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup?

The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup will take place from October 31 to December 16. The group stage will run from October 31 to November 28, with knockout rounds culminating in the championship game on December 16 in Las Vegas. Previously referred to as the NBA Play-In Tournament, Group Play for the Emirates NBA Cup features all 30 teams.

Buying Tickets

How much are NBA tickets?

Ticket prices for NBA games depend on a variety of factors, including date and time, city, matchup, seat location, and when the tickets are purchased. The average ticket for an NBA game can cost anywhere between $100-$200.

Can you buy tickets for single NBA games?

Yes, you can purchase single-game tickets for an NBA game at Ticketmaster. As the Official Ticket Marketplace of the NBA, Ticketmaster has a wide selection of tickets available for every game.

Will there be an NBA preseason for the 2025-26 season?

The NBA preseason will tip off on October 2 in Abu Dhabi and conclude on October 17.

Selling Tickets

If I can’t make the game, can I sell my NBA tickets on Ticketmaster?

If for some reason you can’t make the game, you can sell your tickets on Ticketmaster directly from your account.*

When you visit My Account, you will see a “Sell” button on your order, and you’ll be able to sell your tickets verified through Ticketmaster. Just tap the button to set your price and list your tickets. When your tickets sell, we’ll make sure you receive the correct funds via direct deposit after the event. You can also edit or remove your listing anytime.

*In certain instances, a team or venue may not allow resale for certain rows/seats.

What are fan-to-fan resale tickets?

You may purchase 100% verified NBA tickets from other fans for many events listed with Ticketmaster. If you purchased a verified resale ticket with Ticketmaster, we’ll reissue a new ticket just for you, eliminating the need for photocopies or any manual transfer. Learn more about how to safely sell your NBA tickets.

Refunds

What happens to my NBA tickets if a game is rescheduled or canceled?

Full refunds will be available if a game is canceled and it cannot be replayed, or if it is played under conditions that prohibit fans from attending. More details on NBA ticket refunds can be found here.

More Frequently Asked Questions

Can NBA fans keep balls?

No, generally you cannot keep a basketball that goes into the stands at a basketball game, as it’s considered property of the team and is usually retrieved by arena staff to be put back into play.

What is the newest NBA rule?

Some of the newest NBA rules include:

65-game rule
Players must play at least 65 games to be eligible for major end-of-season awards like MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. This rule was implemented ahead of the 2023-24 season to discourage teams from resting players to manage their load.

Expanded use of instant replay
Starting in the 2024-25 season, the NBA now allows coaches to challenge out-of-bounds violations using instant replay. The on-court officials and Replay Center review the video to see if a foul should have been called.

Coaches’ challenges
Coaches can get a second challenge if their first one is successful. However, teams will not get their timeout back after using a second challenge, even if it’s successful.

All-Star Game format
The All-Star Game will be a pickup-style tournament with four teams and three games. The semifinal games will be played to 40 points, as will the championship game.

Load management
The NBA is trying to reduce how often teams rest players to preserve their health. The league believes this will improve the on-court product.

Over-38 rule 
A provision in the collective bargaining agreement that limits teams from offering long contracts to players who are 38 or older. The rule states that any season after a player’s 38th birthday is prorated based on the salaries from previous salary-cap years.

Do NBA players have to answer questions from the media?

Yes, NBA players are required to answer questions from the media during designated “media availability” sessions after games. If they refuse to participate without a valid reason, they can be fined by the league; essentially, answering questions is considered part of their job as professional athletes. Every player is required to attend media sessions after games, and while players must participate, they also have the right to decline answering specific questions they are uncomfortable with.