Why is the NBA trying unusual start to its season?

The NBA is opening its 2026-2027 regular season with an unprecedented triple-header starting at 3:00 PM ET. The slate begins with the Boston Celtics visiting the Detroit Pistons, followed by the New York Knicks hosting LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers at 7:00 PM ET. The Oklahoma City Thunder face the San Antonio Spurs in the 9:30 PM ET finale, with NBC and Peacock broadcasting all three matchups nationally.

The writer argues the league is trying an afternoon start to innovate under commissioner Adam Silver while avoiding major competition from the NFL. The Big Lead also notes that earlier scheduling benefits international fans across different time zones, allowing global audiences to watch marquee players without having to tune in during the middle of the night.