NBA playoffs 2025 bracket set, key matchups revealed
The 2025 NBA playoffs have begun, with 16 teams vying for the Larry O’Brien Trophy. The Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers lead their conferences after strong seasons.
Key points
- Playoffs start April 19 and run through June, with the finals possibly on June 22.
- The Play‑In tournament runs April 15‑18, followed by the first round, conference semifinals, and finals.
- Western first‑round matchups: Warriors vs. Rockets, Lakers vs. Timberwolves, Nuggets vs. Clippers, Thunder vs. Grizzlies.
- Eastern first‑round matchups: Cavaliers vs. Heat, Celtics vs. Magic, Knicks vs. Pistons, Pacers vs. Bucks.
- Games are broadcast on ESPN, ABC, TNT, NBA TV and streamed via DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and Max with B/R Sports.
The NBA Playoffs are officially underway, launching April and running through June at the latest. Sixteen teams are in the hunt for the Larry O’Brien Trophy, with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers leading their conferences after dominant regular seasons.
Key Dates and Schedule
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Play-In Tournament: April 15–18
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First Round: Begins April 19
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Conference Semifinals: Start May 5–6
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NBA Finals: Game tips off June, with a possible Game on June 22
How to Watch
All playoff games are broadcast on ESPN, ABC, TNT, and NBA TV. Cord-cutters can stream the action live via services like DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and Max (with B/R Sports included)1.
First-Round Matchups to Watch
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Western Conference: Warriors vs. Rockets, Lakers vs. Timberwolves, Nuggets vs. Clippers, Thunder vs. Grizzlies
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Eastern Conference: Cavaliers vs. Heat, Celtics vs. Magic, Knicks vs. Pistons, Pacers vs. Bucks
Tickets and Bracket Info
NBA Playoffs tickets are in high demand; fans are encouraged to check official NBA outlets for availability. The full playoff bracket and daily schedule are updated in real time as teams advance.
With every game carrying massive stakes and superstars ready to make history, this year’s NBA Playoffs promise unforgettable moments. Will the favorites dominate, or is a Cinderella run in the cards? Stay tuned for every twist and upset.
Your questions, answered
When do the NBA playoffs start and end in 2025?
The playoffs begin on April 19 and the finals may tip off in June, with a possible game on June 22.
How can I watch the 2025 NBA playoffs?
All games are on ESPN, ABC, TNT, and NBA TV, and can be streamed live on DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and Max with B/R Sports.
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