The 2026 NBA Playoffs officially begin with the Play-In Tournament on April 14, followed by the start of the First Round on Saturday, April 18. The Conference Semifinals are scheduled to begin on May 4, with the Conference Finals starting on May 19-20. The 2026 NBA Finals are set to tip off on Wednesday, June 3, and could run through a potential Game 7 on June 19.
2026 NBA Playoff Key Dates – Postseason Calendar
Here’s the 2026 NBA Postseason Calendar for you.
Note: Some dates for the Semifinals and Conference Finals are subject to change based on how quickly previous rounds conclude.
| Event | Start Date |
| NBA Play-In Tournament | April 14 – April 17, 2026 |
| NBA Playoffs First Round | April 18, 2026 |
| Conference Semifinals | May 4, 2026 (Possible move to May 2-3) |
| Conference Finals | May 19 – May 20, 2026 |
| 2026 NBA Finals | June 3, 2026 |
2026 NBA Finals Full Schedule
All games for the NBA Finals will air on ABC. Here are the 2026 NBA Playoff key dates for the finals.
- Game 1: Wednesday, June 3
- Game 2: Friday, June 5
- Game 3: Monday, June 8
- Game 4: Wednesday, June 10
- Game 5: Saturday, June 13*
- Game 6: Tuesday, June 16*
- Game 7: Friday, June 19*
*If necessary
FAQ: NBA Playoff Timing
Question: When do the NBA Playoffs start in 2026?
Answer: The postseason begins with the Play-In Tournament on April 14. The official First Round of the 16-team playoff bracket begins on Saturday, April 18.
Question: How long do the NBA Playoffs last?
Answer: The NBA postseason lasts approximately two months. In 2026, the tournament runs from the Play-In start on April 14 to the potential conclusion of the NBA Finals on June 19.
Question: Can the Conference Finals dates change?
Answer: Yes. If the Conference Semifinals end earlier than expected, the NBA may move the start of the Conference Finals up to May 17 or May 18.
Internal Linking Resources
- Download Printable 2026 NBA Playoff Bracket (PDF)
- How to Watch: Prime Video Play-In Streaming Guide
- Full NBA First Round Matchups and TV Schedule
