The 2025 NBA season officially tipped off on Wednesday night, marking the return of high-intensity basketball across 12 games — and the action didn’t disappoint. Coming off Tuesday’s curtain-raiser where the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder received their rings before edging the Houston Rockets in a double-overtime thriller, the league wasted no time setting the tone for an exciting year ahead.
And while plenty of stars stepped up across the league, the night truly belonged to one man — Victor Wembanyama.
Wembanyama Sends a Message in Texas Showdown
In Dallas, the San Antonio Spurs’ 21-year-old phenom Victor Wembanyama reminded everyone why he’s the NBA’s most intriguing player. Facing off against this year’s No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg, Wembanyama delivered a performance that bordered on the surreal.
In just 30 minutes, the French superstar poured in 40 points, 15 rebounds, and three blocks, leading San Antonio to a commanding 125-92 win over the Mavericks. Fans inside the American Airlines Center couldn’t help but join in the “M-V-P!” chants that echoed through the arena — even though Wemby was technically the visitor.
After missing the tail end of last season due to a blood clot issue, Wembanyama looked sharper and stronger than ever. His mix of size, skill, and agility continues to redefine what’s possible for a 7-foot-4 player. He slashed to the rim with ease, hit from beyond the arc, and handled the ball like a guard. On defense, his wingspan was a nightmare for Dallas — deflecting passes, altering shots, and closing off lanes before they even opened.
“We needed to make a statement,” Wembanyama said postgame. “We’re all tired of losing, and that’s the truth.”
For Cooper Flagg, his highly anticipated debut came with growing pains. The 18-year-old rookie finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds, showing glimpses of potential but also some nerves. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd remained optimistic, saying, “I thought Cooper played within himself. He took what the defense gave him.”
If Wednesday night was any indication, Wembanyama is poised to make a serious run at MVP contention this season — and the league is officially on notice.
VJ Edgecombe Makes Rookie History in Philadelphia
While Flagg struggled in his debut, another rookie stole the spotlight on the East Coast. VJ Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, made history in his first professional game for the Philadelphia 76ers.
The 20-year-old guard exploded for 34 points, setting a franchise record for most points in a debut and ranking third all-time among NBA rookies in their first game. Only legends Wilt Chamberlain (43 points, 1959) and Frank Selvy (35 points, 1954) scored more.
Edgecombe’s outburst powered the Sixers to a 117-116 victory over the Boston Celtics, showcasing an elite combination of poise, athleticism, and shot-making rarely seen from a first-year player.
Tyrese Maxey led Philly with 40 points on 54% shooting, while 2023 MVP Joel Embiid struggled through a quiet night — just four points in 20 minutes as he continues to ramp up conditioning.
Boston, still recovering from losing Jayson Tatum to a season-ending Achilles injury in last year’s playoffs, leaned on Jaylen Brown and Derrick White but couldn’t find an answer for Philadelphia’s backcourt duo.
Edgecombe’s debut instantly injected new energy into a 76ers fan base eager for hope after several seasons of playoff heartbreak. If this is just a glimpse of what’s ahead, Philadelphia may have found its next franchise cornerstone.
Giannis Shines as Bucks Honor Khris Middleton
Over in Milwaukee, emotions ran high as Khris Middleton returned to Fiserv Forum for the first time since leaving the Bucks this offseason. Middleton spent 12 seasons with the franchise, helped deliver their 2021 championship, and became one of the most respected players in team history.
During a heartfelt tribute in the first quarter, fans rose for multiple standing ovations — before tip-off, during a tribute video, and again when Middleton checked out near the game’s end.
“To get that type of recognition and appreciation from the city, that meant the world to me,” Middleton said afterward. “Getting a standing ovation on the road doesn’t happen often. That’s every player’s dream.”
Unfortunately for Middleton and his new team, the Washington Wizards, the night belonged to Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The “Greek Freak” dominated as usual, racking up 37 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists in just 27 minutes to lead Milwaukee to a 133-120 win. His combination of power, speed, and efficiency continues to set the standard for what it means to be a two-way superstar.
The Bucks’ supporting cast also looked strong — Damian Lillard added 26 points, while new forward AJ Green contributed a season-high 19 off the bench. Milwaukee looked every bit the contender they’re expected to be in the East this year.
The Takeaway: A Season Already Full of Storylines
The first full slate of the 2025 NBA season had a bit of everything — from Wembanyama’s dominance and Edgecombe’s historic debut to emotional reunions and high-scoring duels.
As the league enters a new era filled with generational talents, Wednesday night was a reminder that the NBA’s future is not just bright — it’s electric.