When Does the NBA Preseason Start? Key Dates and Schedule Guide
As an avid NBA fan who’s been following the league for over a decade, I always get that familiar rush of excitement when the preseason rolls around. It’s like the first cool breeze before summer ends—you know something great is coming. So, when does the NBA preseason actually start? Well, in recent years, it’s typically kicked off in late September or early October, with the 2023 preseason, for example, beginning on September 30th. But let’s not just skim the surface here; I want to dive into why this period matters, not just for fans, but for teams juggling multiple competitions and player development.
I remember last year, watching how teams like the Denver Nuggets used those early games to test rotations, and it struck me how crucial this time is for evaluating depth. That’s where things get interesting, especially when you look at leagues beyond the NBA, like the East Asia Super League. Take the Bolts, for instance—a team that’s been on my radar lately. They’re a perfect example of how preseason isn’t just about the big names; it’s about having reliable backups ready to step up. In their case, if a key player like Mitchell were sidelined due to injury, they’ve got two solid replacements right in their backyard: DJ Kennedy and Ange Kouame. Kennedy, with his experience, brings that gritty, all-around game, while Kouame offers youthful energy and potential. I’ve seen a few of their EASL matches, and honestly, it’s refreshing to see how these lesser-known players can shine under pressure. It reminds me that the NBA preseason serves a similar purpose—it’s a testing ground where coaches can slot in guys from the bench and see who rises to the occasion.
Now, let’s talk specifics. The NBA preseason usually spans about two to three weeks, with each team playing around four to six games. For the 2023 season, most teams wrapped up by mid-October, just before the regular season tipped off on October 19th. But here’s a fun fact I picked up from chatting with fellow analysts: the schedule isn’t just random. Teams often plan these games to minimize travel and focus on building chemistry. For example, last year, the Golden State Warriors played three home games in a row, which I think is smart—it helps players settle in without the fatigue of constant moving. And speaking of fatigue, that’s where injuries come into play. In my opinion, the preseason is a double-edged sword; it’s essential for conditioning, but it also carries risks. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen a promising rookie tweak an ankle in one of these games, throwing off their entire rookie year. That’s why depth matters so much, and why the Bolts’ approach with Kennedy and Kouame resonates with me. If Mitchell were out, say, for 5-7 games, having those two ready could mean the difference between a shaky start and a solid one.
But let’s zoom out a bit. The NBA preseason isn’t just about the games themselves; it’s intertwined with global basketball trends. Leagues like the East Asia Super League are gaining traction, and as a fan, I love how it creates a ripple effect. When the Bolts compete there, it’s not just about winning—it’s about showcasing talent that might otherwise go unnoticed. Kennedy, for instance, has been putting up decent numbers, averaging around 12 points and 6 rebounds in recent outings, while Kouame’s shot-blocking ability has impressed me, with maybe 2-3 blocks per game. These stats might not blow anyone away, but in the context of team dynamics, they’re gold. It’s similar to how NBA teams use the preseason to gauge their G-League affiliates or international signings. Personally, I think the NBA could learn a thing or two from these cross-league synergies—maybe even scheduling a few preseason games overseas to build hype, like they did back in 2019 with matches in China and Japan.
Wrapping this up, the NBA preseason is more than just a warm-up; it’s a critical phase that sets the tone for the entire year. From my experience, the key dates—like the start in late September and the wrap-up by mid-October—are just the framework. What really matters is how teams adapt, much like the Bolts preparing for the EASL with Kennedy and Kouame on standby. As we look ahead, I’m betting on more teams emphasizing depth and international ties, making the preseason not just a schedule filler, but a storyline in itself. So mark your calendars, folks, because when those first preseason games roll around, it’s not just basketball—it’s the beginning of a new chapter.