NBA 2024-25 Season: FAQs, Key Dates, Emirates NBA Cup Information

Now that the 2024-25 NBA season is underway, we want to make sure that you have all the information you need before each game day. From how to get tickets to see your NBA team play live this season, to how to sell your tickets if your plans change and you can’t make the game—we cover it all in the FAQ below. Check back often, as we plan to keep this page regularly updated.

Buying Tickets | Selling Tickets | Refunds

When does the 2024-25 NBA season begin?

The 2024-25 NBA season started on October 22, 2024. Be there to catch your favorite team live all season long and get NBA tickets at Ticketmaster, the Official Ticket Marketplace of the NBA.

How many games will be played during the 2024-25 NBA season?

There will be 82 regular-season games during the 2024-25 NBA season.

How does the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup work?

Previously referred to as the NBA Play-In Tournament, Group Play for the Emirates NBA Cup will feature all 30 teams and take place during the regular season on Tuesdays and Fridays from November 12 to December 3. The top eight teams from Group Play will advance to the knockout rounds and the Semifinals and Championship rounds will take place on December 14 and December 17, respectively, in Las Vegas.

The series will determine which teams get the final four playoff spots.

When do the NBA Playoffs start?

The 2024-25 NBA regular season will end on April 13, 2025 and the NBA Playoffs will begin on April 19, 2025.

Buying Tickets

How much are NBA tickets?

Ticket prices for the 2024-25 NBA season vary. For schedule information, and to purchase tickets to see your favorite team live this season, visit this page.

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 2024-25 season?

The NBA preseason tipped off on October 4 and concluded on October 18.

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 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 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 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 to discourage teams from resting players to manage their load.

Expanded use of instant replay
Starting in the 2024-25 season, the NBA will allow coaches to challenge out-of-bounds violations using instant replay. The on-court officials and Replay Center will 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 likely be a pickup-style tournament with four teams. The two semifinal games will be played to 40 points, and the championship game will be played to 25 points.

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, and 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 do have the right to decline answering specific questions they are uncomfortable with.