Giannis Antetokounmpo enters his 12th NBA season.
Bucks vs. 76ers
The hoops are just heating up as ESPN delivers a must-watch doubleheader on the second night of the regular season. The action kicks off with an Eastern Conference showdown between two title contenders, followed by a star-studded Western Conference clash as the Clippers host their first regular-season game in their brand-new home, the Intuit Dome.
In the opener (7:30 PM ET), the Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, take on Tyrese Maxey and the revamped Philadelphia 76ers. Both teams are eager to make a statement after disappointing first-round playoff exits last season. However, Philly will be without two of its stars, as newly signed Paul George and Joel Embiid are sidelined with left knee injuries.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey, fresh off a breakout season that earned him the Kia Most Improved Player award and his first All-Star selection, will be the focal point for the Sixers. Maxey’s career-best averages of 25.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds show he’s more than ready to rise to the occasion. On the other side, Antetokounmpo and Lillard are a formidable duo, combining for 55 points per game in their three wins over Philadelphia last season.
James Harden enters his 2nd season with the LA Clippers.
Suns vs. Clippers
The late game (10 ET), features the Los Angeles Clippers hosting the Phoenix Suns in their highly anticipated debut at the Intuit Dome. After spending 25 years sharing an arena with the Lakers, the Clippers are celebrating their new home and hope to start the season strong against a loaded Suns squad.
Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal are back for their second season together, looking to build on their 26-15 record in games they shared the court last year. While the Clippers won last season’s series against Phoenix 3-1, they’ll be without Kawhi Leonard tonight. James Harden, who shined in two of last year’s meetings with the Suns, averaging 20.5 points and 10.5 assists on 63.6% from three, will lead the charge as the Clippers try to make their home opener a memorable one.
With two high-profile matchups, tonight’s doubleheader promises to be a thrilling night of NBA action on ESPN.