Sunday’s NBA schedule is packed, offering a compelling mix of high-stakes matchups and intriguing storylines. From a busy afternoon of duels between top teams to a classic rivalry renewed under new leadership, basketball fans have over ten hours of action to look forward to.
Knicks Complete Comeback, Green Stuns in Double Overtime
Saturday night delivered a pair of thrilling finishes, setting the stage for a busy Sunday. The New York Knicks orchestrated a remarkable comeback against the Houston Rockets, erasing an 18-point fourth-quarter deficit to secure a 108-106 victory. Jalen Brunson led the charge, scoring 20 points and hitting the go-ahead jumper with just 30 seconds remaining. Karl-Anthony Towns added 25 points for the Knicks, who outscored the Rockets 33-15 in the final frame.
Meanwhile, in Orlando, Jalen Green of the Phoenix Suns provided the drama with a buzzer-beating three-pointer in double overtime, lifting his team to a 113-110 win over the Magic. Green finished with 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, capping off a game that saw multiple lead changes and a resilient performance from both sides.
ABC Doubleheader: Cavs Test Thunder, Nuggets Visit Warriors
The action tips off on ABC with a pair of intriguing matchups. First, the red-hot Cleveland Cavaliers (36-21) travel to Oklahoma City to face the defending champion Thunder (43-14). Cleveland, winners of seven straight and 5-0 since acquiring James Harden, are looking to continue their ascent in the Eastern Conference standings. Harden’s arrival has revitalized the Cavaliers’ offense, helping them jump to 5th in points in the paint (55.2) and providing a dynamic pairing with Donovan Mitchell.
Harden, currently ninth all-time in points (28,897) and twelfth in assists (8,717), has seamlessly integrated into the Cavaliers’ system, contributing at least eight assists in each of his five games with the team. Jarrett Allen has also benefited from Harden’s playmaking, soaring to third in the league in points in the paint (16.8).
Oklahoma City, however, will present a tough test, even without leading scorer Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (abdomen). The Thunder have demonstrated depth, with five different players leading the scoring in their last six games.
Later on ABC, the Denver Nuggets (36-21) visit the Golden State Warriors (29-27). Denver enters the game having scored the most points in an NBA game this season on Friday (157), showcasing the potent duo of Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Jokić leads the league in rebounding (12.3 rpg) and assists (10.5 apg), while Murray is enjoying a career year, scoring and assisting at a high level (25.6 ppg, 7.6 apg).
The Warriors, currently holding a two-game lead for the eighth seed in the Western Conference, boast a league-leading three-point attack, making 16.4 three-pointers per game, and a top-10 defense (112.7 DefRtg).
Celtics and Lakers Renew Rivalry with Coaching Legacy in Mind
Sunday Night Basketball on NBC and Peacock features a clash between the storied Boston Celtics (36-19) and the Los Angeles Lakers (34-21). Before the game, the Lakers will unveil a statue honoring former head coach Pat Riley, recognizing his significant contributions to the franchise. Riley led the Lakers to four NBA championships in seven Finals appearances.
The current Lakers coach, JJ Redick, shares some similarities with Riley, being a former player turned coach who emphasizes communication and analytical approaches. Redick and Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, despite leading rival teams, are known to be close friends and often discuss strategy.
The Celtics and Lakers have met 303 times in the regular season and 74 times in the playoffs, creating a rich history of competition. This latest chapter promises to be another exciting installment in this iconic rivalry.
Saturday’s Roundup: Wemby’s Dunk Show, Pistons Continue Roll
Saturday also saw impressive performances from other teams and players. The San Antonio Spurs (40-21) continued their remarkable turnaround, winning their eighth straight game with a 139-122 victory over the Sacramento Kings. Victor Wembanyama led the way with 28 points, 15 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 blocks, showcasing his all-around talent and thrilling fans with spectacular dunks.
The Detroit Pistons (41-13) also extended their winning streak to five games with a 126-110 win over the Chicago Bulls. Jalen Duren led the Pistons with 26 points and 13 rebounds, while Cade Cunningham nearly recorded a triple-double with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 13 assists.
In other action, the Miami Heat defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 136-120, and the New Orleans Pelicans overcame the Philadelphia Sixers 126-111.
Rookie Watch: Knueppel and Flagg Making Impact
The 2025 rookie class continues to impress. Kon Knueppel leads the league in total three-pointers made (193), while Cooper Flagg is among the top ten in clutch points scored (82). Rookies are contributing on the floor, but as NBA.com’s Steve Aschburner reports, the traditional rookie duties – like packing for teammates – are becoming less demanding.
