The 2026–27 NBA regular season tips off today, Tuesday, October 20, 2026, with three games featuring some of the league’s biggest teams, including the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.
Basketball fans can look forward to an exciting opening-day schedule, with games beginning in the afternoon and continuing into the evening.
Here is everything you need to know about NBA games today, October 20, 2026, including the complete schedule, start times, television coverage and streaming information.
NBA Games Today: October 20, 2026 Schedule
There are three NBA games scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
All times are Eastern Time (ET).
| Matchup | Start Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Boston Celtics vs. Detroit Pistons | 3:00 PM |
| Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks | 7:00 PM |
| Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs | 9:30 PM |
The opening-day schedule features three intriguing matchups as teams begin their pursuit of the 2027 NBA championship.
What Time Do NBA Games Start Today?
The first NBA game today begins at 3:00 PM ET, when the Boston Celtics visit the Detroit Pistons.
The evening schedule continues at 7:00 PM ET with the Philadelphia 76ers facing the New York Knicks.
The final game of the night features the Oklahoma City Thunder against the San Antonio Spurs at 9:30 PM ET.
Where to Watch NBA Games Today: TV Channels and Streaming
NBA fans looking to watch today’s games can follow the action through national television coverage and streaming services.
NBC and Peacock are scheduled to provide opening-day NBA coverage.
Viewers should check their local television listings and the official NBA schedule for game-specific broadcast information and any regional restrictions.
Boston Celtics vs. Detroit Pistons – 3:00 PM ET
The Boston Celtics travel to face the Detroit Pistons in the first game of today’s NBA schedule.
Both Eastern Conference teams will look to begin the 2026–27 regular season with a victory.
Game Information
- Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Matchup: Boston Celtics at Detroit Pistons
- Tipoff: 3:00 PM ET
Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks – 7:00 PM ET
The Philadelphia 76ers take on the New York Knicks in one of the featured matchups of opening night.
This Atlantic Division showdown gives both teams an early opportunity to make a statement in the Eastern Conference.
Game Information
- Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Matchup: Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks
- Tipoff: 7:00 PM ET
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs – 9:30 PM ET
The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the San Antonio Spurs in the final NBA game scheduled for Tuesday.
The Western Conference matchup brings two competitive teams together to close out opening-day action.
Game Information
- Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
- Matchup: Oklahoma City Thunder at San Antonio Spurs
- Tipoff: 9:30 PM ET
How Many NBA Games Are Today?
There are three NBA games on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
The schedule includes two Eastern Conference matchups and one Western Conference matchup.
Six teams will be in action as the NBA begins its 2026–27 regular-season schedule.
Are There NBA Games Tomorrow, October 21?
Yes. The NBA schedule continues Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with 11 games, including:
- Milwaukee Bucks vs. Washington Wizards
- Atlanta Hawks vs. Orlando Magic
- Charlotte Hornets vs. Brooklyn Nets
- Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors
- Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Miami Heat
- Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans
- Utah Jazz vs. Memphis Grizzlies
- Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets
- Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers
- Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers
- Sacramento Kings vs. LA Clippers
NBA Games Today: Frequently Asked Questions
What NBA games are on today, October 20, 2026?
The Celtics face the Pistons at 3:00 PM ET, the 76ers play the Knicks at 7:00 PM ET, and the Thunder take on the Spurs at 9:30 PM ET.
What time is the first NBA game today?
The first NBA game tips off at 3:00 PM ET between the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons.
What is the last NBA game tonight?
The Oklahoma City Thunder face the San Antonio Spurs at 9:30 PM ET.
How can I stream NBA games today?
Peacock is among the streaming options for opening-day NBA coverage. Fans should confirm the availability of individual games through official broadcast listings.
Is today the start of the 2026–27 NBA season?
Yes. Tuesday, October 20, marks the opening day of the 2026–27 NBA regular season.
Final Thoughts
The NBA returns today, October 20, 2026, with three games to begin the new regular season.
From the Celtics and Pistons in the afternoon to the 76ers and Knicks in prime time and the Thunder and Spurs later in the evening, basketball fans have a full opening-day lineup to enjoy.
Fans can follow the latest NBA scores, schedules, standings and updates throughout the 2026–27 season.