BY STAFF WRITER LUKE GENDRON

SANFORD, Maine — Students at Sanford High School shared their favorite teams and predictions about the upcoming NBA season, which begins Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025.

The NBA season is shaping up to be very interesting this year. Many Mainers are excited to watch rising star Cooper Flagg, who is from Maine. The defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, are returning stronger this year and are a team to watch. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP for the 2024-25 season, also plays for Oklahoma City and is a name to follow.

Dylan Gendron, a senior basketball player, offered his take on the league’s top individual honor.

“Shae-Gilgeous Alexander, with the young talent he has, I think he is the clear MVP and will have some competition, but the championship secures him that MVP,” Gendron said.

Senior basketball player Ryan Alexander shared his favorite players: “Jordan Walsh, Xavier Tillman, Josh Minott and Anfernee Simons.”

When Mr. Ford, a sports history teacher, was asked who he is most excited to see play, he said, “Cooper Flagg, because he is from Maine, so it will be really cool to see him play.”

Fans can watch the season opener on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. EDT. The Houston Rockets are playing the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following this game at 10 p.m. EDT, the Golden State Warriors play the Los Angeles Lakers.

When Mr. Ford, sports history teacher, was asked about who he is most excited to see play, he said, “Cooper Flagg, because he is from Maine, so it will be really cool to see him play.” 

Fans can watch the season opener on Tuesday, October 21, at 7:30 pm Eastern time. The Houston Rockets are playing the reigning champs, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Following this game at 10:00 pm Eastern time, the Golden State Warriors play the Los Angeles Lakers.