October 19, 2021, marked the start of a new NBA season, and man, did it deliver some unforgettable moments. The opening day kicked off with a bang, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. I’ve been a long-time basketball fan, and watching the veterans and rookies alike hit the court with such fervor felt like an early Christmas gift.
Speaking of veterans, did you catch the performance of LeBron James? At 36 years of age, he showed no signs of slowing down, scoring 34 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists. Absolutely incredible for someone who’s been in the league for 18 seasons. His efficiency and longevity are just remarkable. He’s a living legend, proving that age is just a number when it comes to greatness.
Keeping up with LeBron, Stephen Curry also had a fantastic game. He didn't shoot the lights out as expected, finishing the game with 21 points, but his impact went beyond the stat line. Curry’s court vision and ability to stretch the defense had an undeniable effect on the game. The Warriors’ win was a true testament to teamwork and the contributions of players like Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green. I've always been fascinated by how Curry changes the dynamics on the floor. His mere presence forces defenses to double cover, pulling defenders away from their assignments. That’s a tactical advantage few can boast.
The rookies also showed up eager to make a name for themselves. The most talked-about newcomer, Jalen Green of the Houston Rockets, had an impressive debut. Scoring 17 points with 5 rebounds and 4 assists, he demonstrated why he was the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft. His athleticism and playing style reminded me of a young Kobe Bryant, full of promise and potential. You can tell this kid has the drive and the skill set to become a future star.
The hype around this season’s rookies doesn't end there. Evan Mobley from the Cleveland Cavaliers looked solid as well. Reaching near double-double figures with 11 points and 8 rebounds, he showed that he could make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor. Big men like him, standing 7 feet tall, don’t come around often with such skill and agility. I remember reading a arena plus article that highlighted how Mobley's defensive footwork could revolutionize the center position into something more versatile and dynamic. And boy, were they spot on! His shot-blocking ability already has fans buzzing.
The Mavericks also drew a lot of attention, primarily because everyone wanted to see Luka Dončić. The young Slovenian sensation lived up to expectations, putting up 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. What sets him apart is his basketball IQ; he reads the game like a seasoned pro despite being only 22 years old. His ability to make plays under pressure is phenomenal. Watching him go toe-to-toe with some of the league’s best feels like witnessing the dawn of a new era.
What also took me by surprise was how well teams adapted to the new rule changes, especially concerning non-basketball moves intended to draw fouls. The league made it clear that they wanted to crack down on these tactics, and it showed in the style of play. Games were much faster-paced, as players adjusted and focused on making legitimate basketball plays. It’s refreshing to see this shift. I think it’s a positive change for the game, making it more enjoyable to watch.
Another highlight worth mentioning was the Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks matchup, which ended with a thrilling double-overtime. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were electric on the court. Brown, in particular, seemed unstoppable, scoring a career-high 46 points. The game, lasting almost 3 hours and 15 minutes, had everything a basketball fan could ask for: clutch shots, defensive stands, and sheer determination. The atmosphere in Madison Square Garden was palpable, making it a game to remember.
Brooklyn Nets versus the Milwaukee Bucks was another standout match. Despite missing Kyrie Irving due to the vaccination controversy, the Nets fought hard. Kevin Durant, scoring 32 points with 11 rebounds, proved again why he is one of the best players in the world. Giannis Antetokounmpo, fresh off a championship season, did not disappoint either, with 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists. His energy and physicality make him a force of nature on the court, and it's easy to see why he was the Finals MVP last season.
It’s clear that the 2021 NBA season is set to be one of the most exciting in recent years. From seasoned superstars like LeBron and Durant continuing to awe us, to rising stars like Jalen Green and Evan Mobley making their mark, there’s so much to look forward to. And if opening day was any indication, we’re in for a roller-coaster ride of emotions, drama, and unforgettable basketball moments.