Ayrton Oneill
The NBA preseason typically lasts for about two weeks in October, acting as a precursor to the regular season. During the preseason, teams experiment with different lineups, test strategies, and help players get back into the rhythm of playing games. The preseason schedule is relatively flexible, with the NBA only mandating that teams play no more than six games each year. The preseason is an exciting time for fans, offering them a first look at their favourite teams and new talent before the regular season begins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Duration | Typically two weeks |
| Number of Games | No minimum number of games, but teams can't play more than six each year. Each team plays four or five preseason games. |
| Purpose | Teams experiment with different lineups, test new strategies, and allow players to shake off the offseason rust. |
| Start Date | Typically begins in the first or second week of October |
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What You'll Learn
The preseason typically lasts two weeks
The preseason in basketball typically lasts about two weeks. This preparatory period allows players to fine-tune their skills and get in game-ready shape for the upcoming regular season. Teams experiment with different lineups, test new strategies, and allow players to shake off the offseason rust. Coaches also use this time to assess their rosters and evaluate new talent.
The preseason usually takes place in the month of October, about 10 days before the official start of the regular season. For example, the 2024 preseason ran from October 4 to October 18, with the regular season starting on October 22. The preseason featured several games, including international matches in Abu Dhabi and Madrid, Spain.
The number of preseason games varies for each team, with some playing four or five games, while others play up to six games each year. There are few rules for the preseason, and teams have the flexibility to decide whether or not to play any games at all. However, the preseason is an important period for teams to prepare for the regular season and for franchises to generate revenue.
The preseason is also a time for media days and practices to begin. During this period, teams may also travel to different venues to play their preseason games, providing fans with opportunities to see their favorite teams in action before the regular season begins. The preseason games are broadcast on various channels, including NBA TV, ESPN, and TNT, as well as regional networks.
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Teams play between four and six games
The NBA preseason usually lasts for about two weeks in October, with teams playing between four and six games. The preseason serves as a precursor to the regular season, allowing players to fine-tune their skills and get in game-ready shape. It is also an opportunity for coaches to assess their rosters, experiment with lineups, and test new strategies.
The number of preseason games played by each team varies, with some teams playing as few as four games and others playing up to six. There is no minimum number of games mandated by the NBA, but there is a limit of six games per year. Teams have a lot of flexibility in scheduling their preseason games, taking into account factors such as personal relationships, geography, and commerce.
In recent years, some teams have opted for a four-game preseason schedule, starting with a week of training camp, followed by two road games, and then returning home for the final two preseason games. This allows them to focus on their basketball operations and create a certain cadence to the preseason. Playing fewer preseason games can also be a strategic decision, as teams may want to prioritise preparing for the regular season, where the games "actually matter".
On the other hand, playing a higher number of preseason games can have its advantages. For franchises, the preseason is an opportunity to make money, and playing more games can result in higher revenues. Additionally, playing more games can provide more opportunities for teams to test different strategies, evaluate new talent, and integrate offseason acquisitions.
Ultimately, the decision on the number of preseason games played is up to the teams themselves, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Teams need to consider their own unique circumstances, goals, and preferences when determining their preseason schedule.
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There are few rules, but no minimum game requirement
The NBA preseason is one of the last bastions of freedom in professional basketball. There are few rules, and no minimum game requirement. Teams can choose not to play any games at all if they don't want to. The NBA only mandates that teams can't play more than six games each year, leaving the rest up to the teams themselves.
This freedom extends to scheduling as well. The preseason schedule is an alchemy of personal relationships, geography, and commerce. Every franchise has its quirks when it comes to filling out its fixtures, sometimes years in advance. It's more similar to college basketball than professional basketball in this regard.
For example, when the Golden State Warriors canvas the league for potential preseason opponents, they usually start with the Los Angeles teams and Sacramento. Reciprocation is also key in preseason scheduling. The Pistons, for instance, had an agreement to play preseason games in Detroit in 2026 and 2027 against the Suns, who will also play in Phoenix a few weeks later.
Additionally, there are “buy games" where a team pays another team, sometimes an international opponent, to fill a slot. The price range to bring in another NBA team is roughly $75,000 to $200,000. When Shaquille O'Neal played for the Magic, Orlando was a popular preseason opponent and a regular beneficiary of buy games.
The preseason is a time for teams to experiment with different lineups, test new strategies, and allow players to shake off the offseason rust. It's also important for evaluating new talent and integrating offseason acquisitions. While there are no minimum game requirements, most teams will play four or five preseason games, and the preseason typically lasts for about two weeks.
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Teams can pay others to fill schedule slots
The NBA preseason is a time for experimentation and preparation, with teams filling their schedules with games to get ready for the regular season. There are few rules for the preseason, with the NBA only mandating that teams play no more than six games each year. Teams have a lot of flexibility in scheduling their preseason games, and they can even choose not to play any games at all.
Scheduling preseason games is a complex process that involves personal relationships, geography, and commerce. Teams need to fill their slots, and they are willing to pay other teams to do so. This is known as a "buy game". The cost of bringing in another NBA team for a buy game is approximately $75,000 to $200,000. Sometimes, teams have to pay an opposing team to fill a slot when their original plan falls through. In these cases, the NBA may send a league-wide email to notify other franchises, but the team may need to look externally for an international opponent.
For example, the New Zealand Breakers were a late addition to the 76ers' schedule. The Breakers' owner and managing partner, Matt Walsh, received a call asking if the team would add another game to its U.S. tour. In another instance, the Magic, featuring Shaquille O'Neal, were a popular preseason opponent and frequently involved in buy games.
Preseason scheduling often involves reciprocation, with teams agreeing to play games in each other's cities. For instance, the Pistons and the Suns have an agreement to play preseason games in Detroit in 2026 and 2027, with the Pistons playing in Phoenix as well. Teams also consider their business needs when scheduling preseason games, aiming to maximize revenue by playing games on days that bring in more fans.
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It's a precursor to the regular season
The NBA preseason is a precursor to the regular season, offering fans an early glimpse of the teams as they gear up for the upcoming competitive games. Typically, the preseason lasts about two weeks, serving as a preparatory period for players to refine their skills and get match-fit. Teams use this time to assess their rosters, experiment with different lineups, and test strategies in a competitive environment. It's a period of freedom and flexibility, with few rules and an emphasis on personal relationships, geography, and commerce.
The preseason is an exciting time for fans, providing an early opportunity to see their favorite teams in action. Games are spread across various venues and platforms, ensuring accessibility for all fans. Teams play four to five preseason games each, with no minimum mandated by the NBA, only a maximum of six. This allows franchises to tailor their schedules, filling slots with "buy games" against international opponents if needed.
During the preseason, teams focus on integrating new talent and fine-tuning strategies. It's a period of experimentation and evaluation, with coaches assessing their rosters and players shaking off the offseason rust. The preseason also allows teams to play in different locations, with some games taking place internationally, providing a unique experience for fans and players alike.
The preseason is a crucial period for teams to build cohesion and prepare for the challenges ahead. It offers a glimpse into the upcoming season, with teams testing their mettle against opponents and strategizing for the regular season. The preseason is a dynamic and flexible period, allowing franchises to balance basketball operations with the business side, as they gear up for the highly anticipated regular season.
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Frequently asked questions
The preseason in the NBA usually lasts for about two weeks.
Each team will play a handful of games, usually between four and six.
During the preseason, teams experiment with different lineups, test new strategies, and allow players to shake off the offseason rust.
