The NBA has officially announced its highly anticipated “NBA Rivals Week,” scheduled for January 20-24, 2026. This annual event will showcase some of the league’s most intense rivalries, offering fans a week filled with thrilling basketball and compelling storylines. Over five days, the schedule is packed with 11 nationally televised games that promise to deliver high-stakes action and drama.
The week kicks off on January 20 with an exciting doubleheader. The San Antonio Spurs will face off against the Houston Rockets at 8:00 p.m. ET, followed by the Los Angeles Lakers visiting the Denver Nuggets at 10:00 p.m. ET. Both matchups highlight the competitive history and evolving dynamics between these storied franchises.
As we move into the midweek games, January 21 will feature two matchups broadcast on ESPN and the ESPN App. The evening starts with the Cleveland Cavaliers taking on the Charlotte Hornets at 7:00 p.m. ET, followed by the Oklahoma City Thunder going head-to-head with the Milwaukee Bucks at 9:30 p.m. ET. This clash of contrasting styles is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
On January 22, Prime Video will host another exciting slate of games. The Golden State Warriors will battle the Dallas Mavericks at 7:30 p.m. ET, setting the stage for a thrilling evening. Later, the Los Angeles rivalry will be reignited as the Lakers square off against the Clippers at 10:00 p.m. ET. This matchup has consistently drawn attention for its intensity and cultural significance within Los Angeles basketball.
Continuing the Rivals Week festivities, January 23 will feature more action on Prime Video, with the Houston Rockets hosting the Detroit Pistons at 7:00 p.m. ET, followed by the Indiana Pacers visiting the Oklahoma City Thunder at 9:30 p.m. ET. These games provide an opportunity for younger teams to make their mark while maintaining the competitive energy that defines Rivals Week.
The week culminates on January 24 with a tripleheader on ABC and the ESPN App. The day opens with a classic rivalry as the New York Knicks host the Philadelphia 76ers at 3:00 p.m. ET, a matchup that has produced numerous memorable playoff moments over the years. Following that, the Golden State Warriors will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves at 5:30 p.m. ET, before the Lakers close out the week against the Mavericks at 8:30 p.m. ET. This exciting lineup promises a thrilling conclusion to a week dedicated to the league’s most compelling contests.
NBA Rivals Week has become a highlight of the season, showcasing the excitement and drama that rivalries bring to the sport. By featuring a mix of veteran powerhouses and emerging teams, the league ensures that every matchup carries significant stakes—whether for playoff positioning or individual player pride.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, fans can expect Rivals Week to deliver the intensity and storylines they crave, celebrating the league’s storied past while highlighting the stars of its future. Mark your calendars and get ready for a week of unforgettable basketball action!