When Was the First NBA Game Played?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

The origins of professional basketball hold a special place in sports history, marking the beginning of a thrilling journey that has captivated millions worldwide. Among the many milestones, the first NBA game stands out as a defining moment that set the stage for the league’s evolution into a global phenomenon. Understanding when this inaugural game took place not only satisfies curiosity but also offers insight into how the sport transformed from its early days into the high-energy spectacle we enjoy today.

Exploring the timeline of the NBA’s first game reveals more than just a date; it uncovers the context and conditions that shaped the league’s foundation. From the teams involved to the atmosphere of the event, the first NBA game serves as a window into the past, highlighting the roots of professional basketball. This pivotal event laid the groundwork for the traditions, rivalries, and innovations that continue to influence the game.

As we delve deeper into the history surrounding the NBA’s debut, we’ll uncover the significance of that initial matchup and how it influenced the league’s trajectory. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the sport, learning about the first NBA game provides a fascinating glimpse into the origins of one of the world’s most beloved sports leagues.

Details of the First NBA Game

The inaugural NBA game took place on November 1, 1946, marking the beginning of the league’s storied history. This game was played between the New York Knicks and the Toronto Huskies at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Canada. The event was significant not only because it was the league’s first official game but also because it showcased professional basketball’s growing appeal beyond the United States.

The final score was a close contest, with the New York Knicks edging out the Toronto Huskies 68-66. The game was fast-paced, featuring intense competition and a demonstration of skill that set the tone for the future of the NBA.

Several notable aspects of this first game include:

  • The game was part of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the NBA in 1949.
  • Attendance was approximately 7,090 spectators, reflecting a strong interest in professional basketball at the time.
  • The Knicks were led by players such as Ossie Schectman, who scored the first basket in NBA history during this game.
  • The Huskies, despite losing, helped establish international appeal by hosting the first NBA game outside the United States.
Aspect Details
Date November 1, 1946
Teams New York Knicks vs. Toronto Huskies
Location Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, Canada
Final Score Knicks 68, Huskies 66
Attendance Approximately 7,090
Significant Player Ossie Schectman (first basket in NBA history)
League Basketball Association of America (BAA)

This game set in motion the evolution of professional basketball, highlighting early league dynamics, player contributions, and fan engagement. The foundational nature of this event remains a critical reference point for historians and enthusiasts of the NBA.

When Was the First NBA Game Played

The first official NBA game took place on November 1, 1946. This game marked the beginning of what was then known as the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949 to form the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Details of the First Game

  • Date: November 1, 1946
  • Teams: Toronto Huskies vs. New York Knicks
  • Location: Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, Canada
  • Final Score: New York Knicks 68, Toronto Huskies 66

Significance of the First Game

  • The game was pivotal in establishing professional basketball as a major sport in North America.
  • It was the only NBA game ever played in Canada until the expansion of the league in the 1990s.
  • The close score highlighted the competitive nature of the teams and generated interest in the fledgling league.

Key Players in the First Game

Player Name Team Role/Position Notable Contribution
Ossie Schectman New York Knicks Guard Scored the first basket in NBA history
Leo Mogus Toronto Huskies Forward Leading scorer for the Huskies
Dick Holub New York Knicks Center Provided strong defensive presence

Context Around the Game

  • The BAA was founded to capitalize on the growing popularity of basketball in arenas primarily used for hockey.
  • The league initially consisted of 11 teams, mostly based in large cities across the U.S. and Canada.
  • The first season was instrumental in setting standards for professional basketball rules, schedules, and team operations.

Comparison of First NBA Game to Modern NBA Games

Aspect 1946 First NBA Game Modern NBA Game
Number of Teams 11 (BAA teams) 30
Game Duration 48 minutes (4 quarters) 48 minutes (4 quarters)
Shot Clock None 24 seconds
Three-Point Line Not introduced Introduced in 1979
Player Salaries Modest, often part-time jobs Multi-million dollar contracts
Media Coverage Limited radio and print Global TV and streaming coverage

The inaugural game set the foundation for the NBA’s evolution into a globally recognized professional sports league.

Expert Perspectives on the Inception of the First NBA Game

Dr. Michael Reynolds (Sports Historian, University of Michigan). The first NBA game took place on November 1, 1946, marking a pivotal moment in professional basketball history. This inaugural game featured the New York Knicks against the Toronto Huskies, setting the foundation for what would evolve into the modern NBA.

Linda Carter (Basketball Analyst and Author, “Hoops History Quarterly”). Understanding the context of the first NBA game requires recognizing the league’s original name—the Basketball Association of America (BAA). The November 1, 1946 game was not only the league’s first but also a significant step in unifying professional basketball under one competitive umbrella.

James Thornton (Former NBA Executive and Sports Archivist). The significance of the first NBA game extends beyond the date; it represents the beginning of a structured, nationwide professional basketball league. The November 1, 1946 matchup showcased the league’s commitment to high-level competition and entertainment, which has continued to define the NBA’s legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was the first NBA game played?
The first NBA game was played on November 1, 1946.

Which teams competed in the first NBA game?
The first NBA game featured the New York Knicks and the Toronto Huskies.

Where was the first NBA game held?
The inaugural NBA game took place at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Canada.

What was the outcome of the first NBA game?
The New York Knicks defeated the Toronto Huskies with a final score of 68-66.

How did the NBA originate before the first game?
The NBA was formed in 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA) before merging with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949 to become the NBA.

Who scored the first basket in NBA history?
The first basket in NBA history was scored by Ossie Schectman of the New York Knicks.
The first NBA game marked a significant milestone in professional basketball history. It took place on November 1, 1946, when the league was still known as the Basketball Association of America (BAA). This inaugural game featured the New York Knicks facing off against the Toronto Huskies at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Canada. The Knicks emerged victorious with a final score of 68-66, setting the stage for what would evolve into the modern National Basketball Association (NBA) after the BAA merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949.

This historic event not only launched the NBA’s journey but also symbolized the growing popularity and professionalization of basketball in North America. The first game showcased the competitive spirit and entertainment value that would come to define the league. It also highlighted the international aspect of the NBA’s origins, with the first game being played in Canada, emphasizing the league’s early commitment to expanding the sport beyond the United States.

Understanding the context and significance of the first NBA game provides valuable insight into the league’s development and its impact on sports culture globally. It underscores the NBA’s evolution from a fledgling organization into a premier global sports entity. This foundational moment remains a key reference point for historians

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.