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LeBron James and the 76ers won their opening game of the season against the Knicks on ring night at Madison Square Garden.<\/p>\n
The NBA is back! The 81st season in League history got underway Tuesday with a tripleheader on NBC and Peacock. Follow along with the live blog for all the details from the night, starting here<\/a>.<\/p>\n What we know after the American Express NBA Tip-Off:<\/p>\n The Pistons came back from 22 down to defeat the Celtics 121-113<\/a>, led by a second-half surge from Duncan Robinson (21 pts) and Javonte Green (19 second-half points). 12:25 a.m. ET \/ OCT 21<\/p>\n Thunder take WCF rematch, win 116-104<\/p>\n Oklahoma City controlled \u201cGame 8\u201d against San Antonio, holding off every Spurs run to win this 2025 Western Conference Finals rematch 116-104.<\/p>\n Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32 pts, 3 3PM) paced the offense from the midrange, supported by Jared McCain (20 pts, 6 3PM).<\/p>\n \u201cOne of 82. This doesn\u2019t prove anything, this doesn\u2019t mean anything except we won tonight,\u201d said Gilgeous-Alexander.<\/p>\n Stephon Castle (24 pts, 7 reb) finishes the night as San Antonio\u2019s lead scorer.<\/p>\n OKC earned a 48-29 lead in bench points and shot 14-for-31 (45.2%) from 3-point range, while San Antonio had a 31-12 edge in fast break points.<\/p>\n 12:15 a.m. ET \/ OCT 21<\/p>\n McCain making everything<\/p>\n Thunder 109, Spurs 97 with 2:34 remaining.<\/p>\n Jared McCain (20 pts, 6 3PM) tied his career-high with his sixth 3-pointer a moment ago, pushing the OKC lead back to double digits.<\/p>\n His hot shooting has given the Thunder an offensive complement to SGA\u2019s slashing forays.<\/p>\n 12:10 a.m. ET \/ OCT 21<\/p>\n Spurs within range<\/p>\n Thunder 102, Spurs 94 with 5:04 remaining.<\/p>\n A 14-9 fourth quarter has San Antonio within shouting distance late, as Dylan Harper (18 pts) puts up seven straight to rally his team.<\/p>\n The 6-foot-5 second-year guard has elite body control \u2014 you can see it with every movement. A pleasure to watch on the attack.<\/p>\n 11:53 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Thunder lead 93-80 after three<\/p>\n Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (28 pts) has been the best player in this Western Conference Finals rematch, leading the Thunder to a double-digit lead as the fourth quarter looms.<\/p>\n SGA\u2019s stepback midrange game has been on point \u2014 it\u2019s nigh-unguardable when he\u2019s fading away and got it flowing. Shades of Paul Pierce or Kobe Bryant. He can rise and fire at any time.<\/p>\n Can San Antonio mount one more charge? Tune in to NBC and Peacock to find out.<\/p>\n 11:43 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Mara mayhem for OKC<\/p>\n Thunder 84, Spurs 70 with 4:11 to go in the third.<\/p>\n No. 12 pick Aday Mara (5 pts) flashed for the Thunder here, showing the impact of his 7-foot-3 frame.<\/p>\n Aday Mara MAKING PLAYS in his first NBA game \ud83d\udd25<\/p>\n Big-time swat at the rim. The Thunder lead in Q3! pic.twitter.com\/YJpmoBAm8J<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 11:31 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Wembanyama\u2019s everywhere for a moment<\/p>\n Thunder 76, Spurs 67 with 5:49 to go in the third.<\/p>\n Victor Wembanyama (8 pts, 7 reb, 5 blk) just dove to the floor to tap a loose ball, then leapt to his feet to race into the lane to block a layup from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as the Spurs get back into the contest.<\/p>\n He was fired up afterwards \u2014 this matchup matters.<\/p>\n 11:19 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Spurs cut into the lead<\/p>\n Thunder 68, Spurs 53 with 9:53 to go in the third.<\/p>\n A 9-0 run has San Antonio back in the mix to open the third quarter, as Stephon Castle (8 pts) sticks a 3-pointer off an assist from De\u2019Aaron Fox.<\/p>\n 10:57 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Thunder lead 65-44 at the half<\/p>\n Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (16 pts, 4 ast) is pacing the Thunder attack in the Frost Bank Center, as OKC overwhelms San Antonio to take a 19-point lead at the break.<\/p>\n SGA AND-1 \ud83d\ude24<\/p>\n Showcases the handles. He’s got a game-high 16 PTS as the Thunder lead at the break! pic.twitter.com\/6k92rv1VP5<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cThey\u2019re a really good team,\u201d said Jaylen Williams (5 pts, 6 reb). \u201cYou\u2019ve got to put a lot more effort into loose balls, plays like that.\u201d<\/p>\n Victor Wembanyama (8 pts, 6 reb) found some offense towards the end of the half, becoming the top scorer for the Spurs, along with Julian Champagnie (8 pts, 2 3PM).<\/p>\n But it\u2019s been basically all OKC in this rematch of the 2025 Western Conference Finals.<\/p>\n \u201cThe depth, the defense, and the shot-making from this Thunder team. Everyone contributing; making it a little personal in this first half,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Grant Hill. \u201cTextbook half from OKC.\u201d<\/p>\n 10:47 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n OKC controlling the flow<\/p>\n Thunder 51, Spurs 33 with 4:33 to go in the second.<\/p>\n San Antonio\u2019s down to 12-for-43 (27.9%) shooting from the field, as Oklahoma City locks down.<\/p>\n No one\u2019s loose for the Spurs \u2014 Julian Champagnie (8 pts) is their high scorer. On the other end, the Thunder have flashed their depth \u2014 all 11 OKC players who have played have scored.<\/p>\n 10:34 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Thunder with a shooting display<\/p>\n Thunder 46, Spurs 30 with 8:08 to go in the second.<\/p>\n Oklahoma City\u2019s now 7-for-8 (87.5%) from 3-point range on the contest, as Kenrich Williams (3 pts, 1 3PM) knocks one down, speeding them to a lead over San Antonio.<\/p>\n The Spurs are 3-for-14 (21.4%) from distance so far.<\/p>\n 10:26 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Wembanyama with the eraser<\/p>\n Thunder 37, Spurs 28 with 9:21 to go in the second.<\/p>\n Victor Wembanyama (1 blk) just shut down a layup attempt by Ajay Mitchell in transition.<\/p>\n Wemby’s first block of the 2026-27 NBA season \ud83d\udc7d<\/p>\n Times it up. \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n He came into the game with 627 career rejections \u2014 13th most in NBA history for a player after three seasons. Mark Eaton has the most, with 1,082; Spurs legend David Robinson is second with 944.<\/p>\n Wembanyama and Jaylin Williams were just jawing at each other after Chet Holmgren fell to the floor after clashing with De\u2019Aaron Fox. Feels like Game 8 indeed.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is a heated rivalry, a Playoff atmosphere,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Grant Hill.<\/p>\n 10:16 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n OKC leads 34-28 after the first<\/p>\n Jared McCain (8 pts, 2 3PM) and Alex Caruso (6 pts, 2 3PM) are perfect from deep so far, complementing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (9 pts, 3 ast) as our final game of the evening opens in San Antonio.<\/p>\n Both were big in Oklahoma City\u2019s wins in the 2025 Western Conference Finals, and seem to have settled right back in tonight, which NBC\u2019s Grant Hill suggested felt like \u201cGame 8\u201d between the two teams.<\/p>\n Eight Spurs have scored on the other end, led by Stephon Castle and Julian Champagnie, who have five points apiece.<\/p>\n 9:59 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Sixers ride new core to 106-100 win<\/p>\n Tyrese Maxey (28 pts) | Jaylen Brown (19 pts, 8 reb, 6 ast) | LeBron James (14 pts, 9 reb, 7 ast, 1 blk, 1 stl) | Joel Embiid (13 pts, 11 reb, 6 ast, 3 blk, 2 stl)<\/p>\n The Sixers\u2019 star-studded core, led by Tyrese Maxey, took control late as the Sixers knocked off the defending champion Knicks on ring night at Madison Square Garden.<\/p>\n Jaylen Brown and LeBron James chipped in around the edges, as did Joel Embiid. Philly\u2019s new core had palpable chemistry in their first game together.<\/p>\n LeBron James and Jaylen Brown make their Philly debuts, @sixers<\/a> open the season with a W \u203c\ufe0f@KingJames<\/a>: 14 PTS, 9 REB, 7 AST@FCHWPO<\/a>: 19 PTS, 8 REB, 6 AST pic.twitter.com\/0tdCrZBsLP<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cI like the way we played. I think we played exceptionally well, especially defensively,\u201d said James. \u201cGood win to start the season.\u201d<\/p>\n With the win, LeBron raised his all-time record to 25-10 in MSG.<\/p>\n Jalen Brunson (21 pts on 6-for-19 FGA) was the top scorer for the Knicks, but couldn\u2019t get loose down the stretch as Philly surged.<\/p>\n Karl-Anthony Towns (19 pts, 12 reb, 2 blk, 3 3PM) had a strong stretch in the fourth, but Mikal Bridges (4 pts) and OG Anunoby (10 pts, 5 reb) played below their standard.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Sixers head back down I-95 to South Philly 1-0,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Mike Tirico.<\/p>\n 9:45 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Passion in the Garden<\/p>\n Sixers 104, Knicks 98 with 1:52 to go in the fourth.<\/p>\n Both teams are into it as the clock winds down in MSG.<\/p>\n Karl-Anthony Towns (19 pts, 11 reb, 3 3PM) and Joel Embiid (13 pts, 11 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 2 3PM) just traded 3-pointers, with KAT pulling up from 28 feet to drill one from the top of the arc.<\/p>\n Jalen Brunson (19 pts on 5-for-17 FGA) has been grinding to find his offense, dealing with the size of Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe.<\/p>\n 9:39 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Alvarado ups the energy<\/p>\n Sixers 96, Knicks 92 with 5:36 to go in the fourth.<\/p>\n Jose Alvarado (8 pts, 3 ast, 2 stl) has kept the energy pumping for the Knicks with Jalen Brunson on the bench, helping them hang around as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (6 pts, 2 3PM) gets loose for Philly.<\/p>\n Alvarado\u2019s an old-school point guard offensively \u2014 his head is up, his dribble is live, and he\u2019s looking to do what the team needs on the possession.<\/p>\n 9:34 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Tyrese tears down floor<\/p>\n Sixers 90, Knicks 86 with 7:52 to go in the fourth.<\/p>\n An example of the Sixers\u2019 potency in transition. Few players are more dangerous with a step than Tyrese Maxey (26 pts).<\/p>\n STOPS \u27a1\ufe0f BUCKETS<\/p>\n Joel Embiid (3 BLK) protects the rim on one end and Tyrese Maxey (24 PTS) converts the and-1 on the other!<\/p>\n Watch PHI\/NYK 4Q action on NBC and Peacock. pic.twitter.com\/5o2CtXrMDY<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 9:16 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Sixers up 83-76 after three<\/p>\n Jaylen Brown (19 pts) knocked down back-to-back 3-pointers to give the Sixers the lead heading into the fourth quarter, capping an 11-0 run. They won the quarter by that margin, 29-18.<\/p>\n Philly\u2019s tough to deal with in basically any phase of the game \u2014 lot of scoring talent on the floor.<\/p>\n The Knicks are scrapping, but Karl-Anthony Towns (9 pts, 7 reb) and OG Anunoby (7 pts on 2-for-10 FGA) have largely been outplayed. We\u2019ll see if they have a response on ring night at Madison Square Garden.<\/p>\n 9:08 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Knicks\u2019 core responds<\/p>\n Knicks 76, Sixers 72 with 3:00 to go in the third.<\/p>\n Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are taking over the second half of the third quarter for the Knicks, fending off a charge by the Sixers.<\/p>\n They have the last 13 points for New York.<\/p>\n Anfernee Simons (10 pts) is keeping the Sixers\u2019 offense afloat with LeBron James on the bench. He\u2019s a meaningful piece \u2014 a microwave scorer wherever he goes.<\/p>\n Philly\u2019s basically played seven players so far, with limited cameos from Adem Bona and Jabari Walker as well.<\/p>\n We\u2019ll see if Nick Nurse can find another player to keep in the mix \u2014 Justin Edwards and Caleb Love both had their moments last season.<\/p>\n 8:59 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The Sixers on the break<\/p>\n Knicks 63, Sixers 62 with 7:55 to go in the third quarter.<\/p>\n Eight straight fast break points for Philadelphia to open the second half, capped by back-to-back finishes at the rim from LeBron James (9 pts, 4 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl).<\/p>\n Jaylen Brown and LeBron James connect on back-to-back buckets!<\/p>\n 1-point game in the 3Q from MSG\u2026 pic.twitter.com\/kNR1nBlNka<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n They\u2019re going to be a force in transition once they start clicking, given Tyrese Maxey\u2019s speed and the athleticism on the wing.<\/p>\n Classic LeBron team moments here.<\/p>\n 8:34 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Knicks lead 58-54 at the half<\/p>\n Jalen Brunson (15 pts) and Andre Drummond (10 pts, 12 reb, 3 ast, 2 blk) have New York up at the break, out-dueling Tyrese Maxey (16 pts) and Joel Embiid (10 pts, 2 stl).<\/p>\n Drummond, a former Sixer, made his presence felt on the glass, going toe-to-toe with Embiid on multiple occasions.<\/p>\n He\u2019s helped the Knicks to a 25-8 advantage in bench points.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m tired of the preseason. I\u2019m ready for the real thing,\u201d said Drummond. \u201cIt\u2019s a lot of fun out there tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n 8:24 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n JB & LBJ on the attack<\/p>\n Knicks 54, Sixers 50 with 1:00 to go in the second.<\/p>\n Jaylen Brown (9 pts) and LeBron James (5 pts, 4 reb, 4 ast) just combined for six straight points, culminating with a dunk from JB to cut the Knicks lead to four.<\/p>\n LeBron James with the pass, Jaylen Brown with the finish \ud83d\udca5<\/p>\n 4-point game at the break on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/ZiSl77DgSb<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n There\u2019s some chemistry between LeBron and his new star wing teammate \u2014 shades of Dwyane Wade, maybe?<\/p>\n 8:01 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Clarkson to the rack<\/p>\n Knicks 40, Sixers 30 with 7:25 to go in the second.<\/p>\n Jordan Clarkson (4 pts) just scored back-to-back buckets for the Knicks, including snaking to the rim off an Andre Drummond screen to force a Philadelphia timeout.<\/p>\n Clarkson\u2019s now in his 12th season, averaging 15.3 ppg for his career. He spent part of the 2018 season as a teammate of LeBron James in Cleveland.<\/p>\n 7:57 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The impact of Alvarado<\/p>\n Knicks 32, Sixers 28 with 9:15 to go in the second.<\/p>\n Jose Alvarado just dropped off a dime to Andre Drummond (10 pts, 11 reb), stole the ball from Jaylen Brown at midcourt and pushed it for a 3-pointer in transition.<\/p>\n THIS. KNICKS. SEQUENCE.<\/p>\n Jose Alvarado (5 PTS, 2-3 FGM), Andre Drummond (10 PTS, 11 REB) and the @nyknicks<\/a> lead in the 2Q on NBC and Peacock \ud83d\uddfd pic.twitter.com\/ZHFyBDQSeQ<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 21, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n A signature energy play from the Brooklyn-born point guard.<\/p>\n 7:49 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Knicks lead 25-23 after one<\/p>\n Andre Drummond (6 pts, 6 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk) put his stamp on the first quarter, crashing the glass against his former team to help the Knicks to a two-point lead at the quarter break.<\/p>\n New York has 16 points in the paint to eight for Philadelphia.<\/p>\n The game saw three lead changes and three ties in the first period.<\/p>\n 7:43 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n LeBron in the record books<\/p>\n Sixers 22, Knicks 19 with 1:56 to go in the first.<\/p>\n The King has his first points as a Philadelphia 76er, clearing out space against Landry Shamet for the layup. A strong catch and finish.<\/p>\n LeBron James’ first bucket in his @sixers<\/a> debut \ud83d\ude4c pic.twitter.com\/HJT7u54qee<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 7:40 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Wemby in the spot<\/p>\n Victor Wembanyama is debonair in the grey-and-blue suit ahead of tonight\u2019s contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder (9:30 ET, NBC\/Peacock).<\/p>\n Last season’s Kia NBA DPOY has arrived \ud83d\udc7d<\/p>\n Wemby and the @spurs<\/a> start their 2026-27 campaign against the Thunder at 9:30pm\/et on NBC & Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/IHUoigDCCf<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 7:33 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The Maxey-LeBron two man game<\/p>\n Sixers 14, Knicks 14 with 4:36 to go in the first.<\/p>\n Tyrese Maxey (8 pts) drilled a midrange jumper while fading into the corner, shaking Jalen Brunson with a screen and give-and-go dish from LeBron James (3 ast).<\/p>\n That should be a strong element of the offense for the Sixers. LeBron\u2019s ability to read the floor is second-to-none, and Maxey is a blur finding and exploiting space.<\/p>\n 7:21 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Maxey starts on the attack<\/p>\n Sixers 8, Knicks 5 with 8:58 to go in the first.<\/p>\n Tyrese Maxey (6 pts) opens the new season with back-to-back 3-pointers, including a confident one from above-the-break in transition.<\/p>\n Jaylen Brown (2 pts) got in the ledger off a feed from LeBron James, following a 3-pointer on the wing from Jalen Brunson, who stepped to the arc and seized the opportunity after Maxey was knocked to the floor by a screen.<\/p>\n LeBron James finds Jaylen Brown for his first bucket as a 76er! \ud83d\udc40<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcfa NBA Tip-Off on NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com\/6BVdELkvur<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 6:58 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The Captain speaks<\/p>\n rings acquired \ud83d\udd25 pic.twitter.com\/6XpZuJ36BY<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n Ring on his finger, Jalen Brunson credited the fans for sticking with them, including in Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Finals, when they rallied from 29-down to win on a tip-in by OG Anunoby.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is unbelievable. This is really a dream come true,\u201d said Brunson. \u201cThe joy that this city had this summer, we\u2019d love to replicate that again.\u201d<\/p>\n The fans chanted \u201clet\u2019s go Knicks\u201d as the banner honoring the 2025-26 NBA Champions was raised to the top of Madison Square Garden.<\/p>\n 6:47 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n A ring ceremony in New York City<\/p>\n The Knicks are raising an NBA championship banner to the rafters in Madison Square Garden for the first time in 53 years, as fans applaud the hustle, tenacity and skill of the 2025-26 team, our reigning champions.<\/p>\n Ben Stiller shares what the Knicks championship means to New York. \ud83e\udde1 pic.twitter.com\/OAYfioBONo<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n There are legends in the building; the crowd is warm and appreciative; Mike Breen is on the mic.<\/p>\n Tune in to NBC and Peacock for this special occasion.<\/p>\n 5:36 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Pistons win 121-113<\/p>\n Paul George (38 pts) | Duncan Robinson (21 pts, 15 in the fourth<\/a>) | Javonte Green (19 second-half points)<\/p>\n Detroit controlled the glass and caught fire from 3-point range to storm back and beat the Celtics at Little Caesars Arena, completing the largest opening-day comeback in 30 years.<\/p>\n \u201cWe had a good talk at halftime, and we lit that fire a little bit better,\u201d said Cade Cunningham (16 pts).<\/p>\n The Pistons grabbed 59 rebounds to 45 for the Celtics, helping them earn a 44-34 advantage in points in the paint.<\/p>\n They also shot 11-for-22 (50%) from distance in the second half, led by Robinson and Green, who each had five 3-pointers.<\/p>\n On the other end, the Celtics offense bogged down, with Jayson Tatum (13 pts on 6-for-23 FGA) unable to get to the rim to complement a big day from Paul George, although he added 11 assists in the game.<\/p>\n \u201cThis Pistons team has a ton of fight in them,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Brian Scalabrine.<\/p>\n The Celtics were the last team to come back from 20+ down on opening day. They did so in 1997, rallying to beat the eventual champion Chicago Bulls.<\/p>\n 5:29 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n One last surge from Boston<\/p>\n Pistons 114, Celtics 110 with 1:06 remaining.<\/p>\n Jayson Tatum (13 pts, 11 ast) found Paul George (38 pts) for a wing 3-pointer on the break, capping an 11-2 run to give the Celtics a breath of life.<\/p>\n But Detroit has the ball with less than a minute to go.<\/p>\n 5:17 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n \u2018On fire here in the fourth\u2019<\/p>\n Pistons 107, Celtics 99 with 5:10 to go in the fourth.<\/p>\n Detroit\u2019s seized their biggest lead of the game with an 18-0 run, led by Duncan Robinson (23 pts, 5 3PM), who is going crazy in the season opener.<\/p>\n Robinson just called for more noise from the crowd as the Celtics were forced into a timeout.<\/p>\n Boston looks a step slow, while Detroit\u2019s playing with pace and energy.<\/p>\n 5:13 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Can\u2019t lose Duncan<\/p>\n Pistons 101, Celtics 99 with 6:14 to go in the game.<\/p>\n Sam Hauser just fouled Duncan Robinson (17 pts) on a 3-point attempt, bringing Detroit within one.<\/p>\n Daniss Jenkins pushed it into the paint, then tossed the rock out over traffic to Ausar Thompson, who flipped it to Robinson flying out of the corner. He rose up with Hauser trailing, drawing the foul with a bump to the body.<\/p>\n On the next possession, Robinson found Javonte Green (14 pts, +21) for another 3-pointer, giving the Pistons their first lead since it was 34-33.<\/p>\n 5:09 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Robinson on the arc<\/p>\n Celtics 99, Pistons 95 with 7:34 to go in the game.<\/p>\n Duncan Robinson (14 pts, 4 3PM) just drilled a 3-pointer to force a timeout, sending the Detroit crowd into ecstatics as these teams go back-and-forth to open the season.<\/p>\n Pistons fans are going nuts after this ferocious block and Duncan Robinson triple!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcfa NBA Tip-Off on NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com\/knXTyPCG5e<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n He has the last eight points for Detroit, helping them strike back after Boston opened another 10-point lead.<\/p>\n 5:01 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Robinson on the roll<\/p>\n A triple-high screen just freed Mitchell Robinson for an alley-oop from Derrick White. Heck of a set from Joe Mazzulla.<\/p>\n Baylor Scheierman brushed past before this clip begins, giving the action a distinctive look.<\/p>\n Derrick White finds the cutting Mitchell Robinson for the alley-oop!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcfa NBA Tip-Off on NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com\/F0ZlzIrz3j<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve been in the league 25 years,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Brian Scalabrine. \u201cI don\u2019t know if I\u2019ve ever seen that.\u201d<\/p>\n 4:55 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Celtics lead 88-82 after three<\/p>\n Baylor Scheierman knocked down a 3-pointer with 0.2 left on the clock, lifting Boston to a two-possession lead off another dime from Jayson Tatum (11 pts, 10 ast).<\/p>\n Detroit won the third quarter 37-30, cutting into a lead that reached 22 points.<\/p>\n \u201c(We\u2019re) not allowing them to get comfortable and going where they were going to go,\u201d said Pistons assistant coach Jarrett Jack.<\/p>\n The Pistons\u2019 hustle is up against the Celtics\u2019 passing as we enter the final period in the first NBA game of the season. Get to NBC and Peacock to watch the battle!<\/p>\n 4:51 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Pistons on the hunt<\/p>\n Celtics 81, Pistons 77 with 2:32 to go in the third.<\/p>\n Two more 3-pointers for Javonte Green (11 pts) have the Celtics on their heels, as the Pistons are on rolling downhill.<\/p>\n Detroit\u2019s made five of their last seven 3-pointers to get back in it.<\/p>\n 4:44 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Green means go<\/p>\n Celtics 78, Pistons 69 with 4:40 to go in the third.<\/p>\n Javonte Green (5 pts) has provided instant impact to get the Pistons back in it, bringing life to the fans at Little Caesars Arena.<\/p>\n He just knocked down a corner 3-pointer to bring Detroit, which is on a 19-6 run, back within single digits.<\/p>\n The Pistons are showing fire in responding to the Celtics\u2019 charge. We\u2019ve got a good one as the season begins!<\/p>\n 4:39 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n More history for PG<\/p>\n Celtics 77, Pistons 64 with 5:33 to go in the third.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat kind of bucket do you want?\u201d NBC\u2019s Terry Gannon just intoned. \u201cPaul George will give it to you right now.\u201d<\/p>\n George just hit an acrobatic and-one layup, bouncing off the contest from Jalen Duren and tossing the ball off the glass with his right hand.<\/p>\n PG (31 pts) now has the most points for a Celtic in their debut.<\/p>\n Detroit\u2019s battling back in front of their home crowd, though, led by Cade Cunningham (14 pts).<\/p>\n 4:34 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Paul George raining from deep<\/p>\n Celtics 72, Pistons 52 with 7:59 to go in the third.<\/p>\n Three straight 3-pointers for Paul George (28 pts, 6-for-8 3PA, 4 stl), who is putting on a show on NBC.<\/p>\n Paul George is going OFF from deep with three triples in a row. \ud83d\udd25<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcfa NBA Tip-Off on NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com\/2neSOci33Q<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA on NBC and Peacock (@NBAonNBC) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n The 37-year-old wing looks spry today.<\/p>\n JB Bickerstaff has countered with former Celtic Javonte Green, who will bring some athleticism and hustle on the wing.<\/p>\n 4:29 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n A quick timeout for Detroit<\/p>\n Celtics 63, Pistons 47 with 10:36 to go in the third.<\/p>\n JB Bickerstaff called a halt to the action after Derrick White (8 pts, 2-for-5 3PA) hit an uncontested 3-pointer from the the top of the arc, giving Boston a quick 5-0 run.<\/p>\n Their ball movement is giving Detroit problems at this point \u2014 there\u2019s a lot of ground to cover.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Celtics have so many weapons out there,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Brian Scalabrine. \u201cIf they have their spacing right, they\u2019re going to be tough to stop.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDetroit has no more room for awareness mistakes,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Robbie Hummel, relaying Bickerstaff\u2019s comments to his team. \u201cThey\u2019ve got to lock in on both ends.\u201d<\/p>\n 4:19 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The King steps in<\/p>\n A dapper LeBron James has arrived at Madison Square Garden to begin the campaign. The 76ers face the Knicks in the second game of our triple-header.<\/p>\n LEBRON ARRIVES FOR HIS SIXERS DEBUT \u203c\ufe0f@KingJames<\/a> begins his NBA-record Year 24 TONIGHT against the Knicks at 7pm\/et on NBC and Peacock \ud83c\udf7f pic.twitter.com\/zL3y8JZejy<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 4:17 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n History for PG<\/p>\n Paul George\u2019s latest 3-pointer brought him into eighth place on the all-time charts with 2,551, passing Kyle Korver<\/a>.<\/p>\n With this triple, Paul George moves into 8TH ALL-TIME in three-pointers made \ud83e\udd29<\/p>\n He’s got a game-high 17 points as the Celtics lead at the break on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/edc8Da381c<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 4:13 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Celtics lead 58-45 at the half<\/p>\n Kevin Huerter\u2019s attempt at a buzzer-beating 3-pointer was waved off, as Jayson Tatum and Paul George (17 pts, 3 3PM, 3 reb, 2 stl) doubled Cade Cunningham, harassing him into a late cross-court pass to preserve the 13-point lead.<\/p>\n Boston broke away with its defense in the second quarter. Detroit\u2019s down to 38.6% FG shooting, including a 4-for-18 (22%) mark from deep.<\/p>\n It\u2019s been a competitive contest so far, with stars on both sides making plays. George\u2019s scoring has been a major factor.<\/p>\n Jalen Duren (13 pts, 5 reb) is leading Detroit in scoring after signing a five-year extension with the Pistons<\/a> this offseason.<\/p>\n \u201cThis NBA season is going to be ridiculous,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Brian Scalabrine.<\/p>\n \u201cEspecially in the Eastern Conference,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Robbie Hummel. \u201cThere is so much talent in the East.\u201d<\/p>\n 4:04 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Can\u2019t lose Hauser<\/p>\n Celtics 58, Pistons 43 with 1:04 remaining in the half.<\/p>\n Sam Hauser (8 pts, 2 3PM) just sprung loose at the break in the arc for a 3-pointer over Duncan Robinson, who was a step late on the contest. The 6-foot-9 wing out of Marquette is a career 41.2% 3-point shooter.<\/p>\n Jayson Tatum (11 pts, 5 reb, 6 ast) is on triple-double watch for Boston.<\/p>\n \u201cHe just lets the game comes to him and gets what the game needs,\u201d NBC\u2019s Brian Scalabrine said of Tatum.<\/p>\n The energy is picking up in this one as the Celtics make a run. Cade Cunningham just tried to break the rhythm with an alley-oop to Jalen Duren, but Paul George responded with a smooth jumper off another assist from Tatum.<\/p>\n 3:58 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n PG-13 in his element<\/p>\n Paul George (9 pts, 3 reb, 1 stl) has been a steadying presence for the Celtics, ball-hawking on defense and meeting the flow on offense.<\/p>\n He just helped first a turnover, then ran the break with Jayson Tatum, drawing a foul at the rim.<\/p>\n The 37-year-old George, in his 17th NBA season, hasn\u2019t been a second option for a while; the more comfortable he looks, the better for Boston.<\/p>\n \u201cPaul George, defensively, has been in a stance this afternoon,\u201d said NBC\u2019s Robbie Hummel.<\/p>\n 3:49 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The Pistons are deep<\/p>\n 39-all with 7:21 to go in the second quarter.<\/p>\n Detroit\u2019s gotten 3-pointers from Duncan Robinson, Isaiah Joe, Kevin Huerter and Daniss Jenkins, reflecting their new shooting depth.<\/p>\n Every long ball is meaningful for them, as they seek to open up the key for Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren to run pick-and-rolls.<\/p>\n 3:40 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Ausar\u2019s aerial elevation<\/p>\n Ausar Thompson (6 pts, 4 reb) just delivered an acrobatic finish, floating in midair through the lane before flipping it home with a right-handed reverse layup.<\/p>\n “This looks like something you’d see in figure skating.” \ud83e\udd23<\/p>\n Elite athleticism on display in Detroit! https:\/\/t.co\/iOm2lUwqOU<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/joObaIMkE1<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n It\u2019s good to have the NBA back.<\/p>\n 3:35 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Celtics lead 28-27 after one<\/p>\n Jayson Tatum (7 pts on 3-for-9 FGA, 3 reb, 4 ast) capped the first quarter with a leaning jumper in the key, giving Boston a one-point lead after the first period of the 2026-27 NBA season.<\/p>\n Detroit\u2019s been moving-and-blocking on the perimeter, using their athleticism and rim-running wings and bigs to open up gaps for shooters. They\u2019re 11-for-22 (50%) from the field so far, led by Cade Cunningham (6 pts) and Jalen Duren (5 pts, 2 reb).<\/p>\n Boston\u2019s countered with a precise, perimeter-oriented structure. Detroit disrupted them to the tune of six turnovers in the first quarter, but the Celtics hit 4-for-9 3PA (44%) to help take a slim lead.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ve got a lot of unforced turnovers\u2026 We\u2019ve got to take care of the ball, move the ball,\u201d said Celtics assistant coach Sam Cassell. \u201cYou don\u2019t want to give up easy baskets. Transition leads to easy points.\u201d<\/p>\n 3:31 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The pivot in the paint<\/p>\n The Celtics\u2019 revamped offense is putting the ball in Mitchell Robinson and Neemias Queta\u2019s hands often on the short roll.<\/p>\n Both have an assist so far. Last season, Queta averaged 1.7 apg; Robinson 0.9.<\/p>\n Their decision-making will be key as the Celtics adjust to a more balanced attack without Jaylen Brown.<\/p>\n 3:23 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n \u2018Unpredictable\u2019<\/p>\n Boston has the ball popping so far \u2014 they\u2019ve taken seven 3-pointers to four for Detroit.<\/p>\n But the Pistons have countered with 16 points in the paint and six off turnovers.<\/p>\n 21-18 Detroit with 3:00 to go in the first.<\/p>\n 3:13 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Some strategy to start<\/p>\n Paul George (5 pts) scored his first basket for the Celtics with a 3-pointer, sprung by a hard-working offensive rebound from Jordan Walsh. Boston\u2019s going to try to be a terror on the offensive glass and use second-chance opportunities to cue 3-pointers.<\/p>\n Second-chance opportunities\u2026<\/p>\n Paul George’s FIRST BASKET with the @celtics<\/a> comes from downtown \ud83d\udc4c pic.twitter.com\/KN7cbWMtBR<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n On the other side, Detroit is starting both Ausar Thompson and Ron Holland II. Both shot 25% from 3-point range last season \u2014 will be interesting to see how JB Bickerstaff wants to use their athleticism to offset the lack of shooting.<\/p>\n 3:08 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n The Boston bigs<\/p>\n We are underway in Little Caesars Arena!<\/p>\n The Celtics are starting new acquisition Mitchell Robinson and bringing incumbent starting center Neemias Queta off the bench \u2014 keep an eye on how Joe Mazzulla balances his bigs.<\/p>\n 2:45 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Pistons on the bounce<\/p>\n Can last season\u2019s No. 1 seed turn in a repeat performance this campaign? It starts in just minutes.<\/p>\n Jalen Duren and Cade Cunningham close out pregame warmups with slams \ud83d\udca5<\/p>\n The Pistons host the Celtics in Detroit to open the 2026-27 NBA season TODAY at 3pm\/et on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/V495c1Uiqy<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 2:40 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Jayson Tatum\u2019s getting loose<\/p>\n \u201cI personally think we\u2019re going to see Jayson Tatum in the conversation for MVP all year,\u201d said Reggie Miller on NBC. \u201cI think he wants to put a statement on this season for the Celtics.\u201d<\/p>\n JT locking in during pregame warmups \ud83d\udd12<\/p>\n Jayson Tatum opens Year 10 vs. the Pistons TODAY at 3pm\/et on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/9jdeP7QWDx<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 2:05 p.m. ET \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Get locked in with our pregame show<\/p>\n Go inside the arena<\/a> as we prepare to tip off Celtics-Pistons in under an hour.<\/p>\n 12:51 PM \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Pistons are greeted by their fans<\/p>\n Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are checking in for their season opener versus the Boston Celtics.<\/p>\n Detroit’s MotorCADE is greeted by excited fans \u203c\ufe0f<\/p>\n Cade Cunningham opens Year 6 vs. the Celtics TODAY at 3pm\/et on NBC and Peacock! pic.twitter.com\/4s00wvOjGS<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n Jalen Duren arrives on the blue carpet in Detroit!<\/p>\n The Pistons host the Celtics to open the 2026-27 NBA season TODAY at 3pm\/et on NBC and Peacock \ud83c\udf7f pic.twitter.com\/2DdZNsRKcS<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 NBA (@NBA) October 20, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n 12:38 PM \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Championship banner will be raised at MSG<\/p>\n The New York Knicks will place their 3rd championship banner in the rafters of Madison Square Garden tonight (6:30 p.m. ET, NBC\/Peacock) ahead of the season opener against the new-look 76ers.<\/p>\n 8:58 AM \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n LeBron is entering his historic 24th season<\/p>\n LeBron James and the new-look Sixers will start the season at MSG, tonight at 7 p.m ET (NBC\/Peacock)<\/p>\n The King has the all-time wins record in his sights, as he starts the year 27 behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.<\/p>\n 8:27 AM \/ OCT 20<\/p>\n Everything you need to know about tip off tripleheader<\/p>\n Shaun Powell brings us the top storylines for today\u2019s games.<\/a><\/p>\n
\nThe Knicks raised their championship banner at Madison Square Garden, celebrating their first title in 53 years.
\nThe 76ers opened the season with a 106-100<\/a> win over the Knicks, as Tyrese Maxey (28 pts), Jaylen Brown (19 pts), LeBron James (14 pts, 9 reb, 7 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk) and Joel Embiid (13 pts, 11 reb, 6 ast, 3 blk, 2 stl) showed chemistry in their debut together.
\nThe Thunder made a statement in their opening contest, beating the Spurs 116-104<\/a> behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (32 pts).<\/p>\n
Two-hand alley-oop slam.<\/p>\n
Sinks the TOUGH jumper. <\/p>\n
Swats it off the glass. pic.twitter.com\/xNbgTZDaCw<\/a><\/p>\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nba\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/16x9-safezone-177-784x441.jpg\")
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