Saturday, May 2, 2026

December Start

Anthony Davis
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The NBA will start the 2020-21 season on Dec. 22 with a 72-game schedule. The National Basketball Players Association voted to approve the season plan following discussions with the NBA’s Board of Governors yesterday. 

Beginning the season before Christmas Day and finishing the postseason prior to the start of the Tokyo Olympics in July could be worth an additional $500 million to $1 billion to the league and players.

Arena suites reportedly could be open to fans at 25-50% capacity for the 2020-21 season tip-off, based on local regulations. Up to $4 billion is at stake if fans are limited at games next season.

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