Rockets start postseason versus Dallas

MACAO, CHINA - OCTOBER 8: Reed Sheppard #15 of the Houston Rockets dribbles during practice and media availability as part of 2026 NBA China Games on October 8, 2026 in Macao, China at Venetian Arena. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images Houston Rockets vs. Dallas Mavericks

October 9th, 2026

Location: The Venetian Arena Macao, China

TV:NBA TV and Space City Home Network

Radio:KBME Sports Talk 790 / KLTN 102.9 (en español)

Probable Starting Lineups

Rockets: Fred Vanvleet, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun

Mavericks: Kyrie Irving, Max Christie, Cooper Flag, P.J. Washington Jr.Dereck Lively II

Finally, after a long offseason, NBA basketball is back! (Yes, I am aware it is preseason (LET ME HAVE THIS).

It will be exciting to see the new additions to the roster play, and the return of Fred Vanvleet and Steven Adams. It will also be exciting to see the return of Kyrie Irving, and how he fits in with Cooper Flag.

We will have the postgame recap for you after the game, so make sure to check back for the recap in case you don’t wish to watch basketball at 7 am.