The NBA’s 2024-25 season is set to feature several notable homecoming games as players change teams during the offseason. From championship veterans to new arrivals, fans can expect high emotions and warm receptions as these athletes return to their former arenas.
One of the key matchups will be on November 6 when Paul George, now with the Philadelphia 76ers, faces off against his previous team, the Los Angeles Clippers. This game will take place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, marking George’s first visit to the Clippers’ new home after he spent five seasons with them, earning three All-Star selections.
Klay Thompson’s emotional return to Golden State will occur on November 12, when he and the Dallas Mavericks travel to face the Warriors. Thompson, a longtime Warriors star, spent 13 years with the team, contributing to four championship wins and five All-Star nods before signing with the Mavericks in a significant offseason move.
Fans can also look forward to December 19, when Karl-Anthony Towns returns to Minnesota to play the Knicks. After being traded to New York in a blockbuster deal that sent Julius Randle and others to the Timberwolves, Towns will return to the place he called home for nine seasons.
On January 12, DeMar DeRozan will visit the Chicago Bulls with the Sacramento Kings. His move to the Kings was part of a sign-and-trade deal after concluding a three-year tenure with the Bulls, during which he became an All-Star twice.
Finally, Mikal Bridges will face the Nets on January 21. After a trade from Brooklyn to the Knicks, Bridges reunites with former college teammates and will meet his old team multiple times this season, with the Knicks and Nets rivalry heating up.
These homecoming games promise to be highlights of the upcoming NBA season.