Greatest NBA Season Starts Ever

What makes a NBA season start truly legendary, guys? Is it a team exploding out of the gate with an unbelievable win streak, or is it a specific player who's just on another level from game one? We're diving deep into the best NBA season starts in history, looking at those squads and individuals who didn't just show up, but dominated from the tip-off. Forget slow burns; these are the seasons that started with a bang, setting the tone for unforgettable campaigns and, in some cases, legendary championships. We'll explore the teams that defied expectations, the superstars who announced their arrival with thunderous slams, and the sheer statistical anomalies that made us all sit up and take notice. Get ready, because we're about to relive some of the most electrifying beginnings the league has ever seen.

Early Season Dominance: Setting the Tone

When we talk about the best NBA season starts, we're not just looking at a few wins; we're talking about utter dominance. Think about the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, led by the arguably greatest player of all time, Michael Jordan. After his return from baseball, MJ was hungrier than ever, and the Bulls were a force of nature from the very beginning. They started that season an astonishing 41-3! Can you even wrap your head around that kind of start? That's not just winning; that's setting a benchmark that almost seems impossible to reach. They weren't just beating teams; they were dismantling them. This early season surge wasn't a fluke; it was a statement of intent. It signaled to the rest of the league that the Bulls were back, and they were playing on a different planet. The chemistry was palpable, the execution was flawless, and Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and the rest of that legendary squad were firing on all cylinders. This kind of start doesn't just build momentum; it instills fear in opponents and confidence within the team. It's the kind of beginning that makes fans believe a championship is not just possible, but inevitable. The sheer statistical superiority displayed in those opening months was breathtaking. They were winning by huge margins, making it look effortless, and racking up wins with a relentless efficiency that few teams have ever matched. It set the stage for a 72-10 regular season, a record that stood for two decades, and ultimately, an NBA championship. That's what we mean by a truly epic season start – it's the foundation upon which greatness is built.

The Warriors' Unstoppable Force (2015-16)

Speaking of unbelievable starts, we have to talk about the Golden State Warriors in the 2015-16 season. These guys were coming off a championship, and somehow, they got even better. Led by the electrifying Stephen Curry, who was hitting shots from distances that defied physics, they started the season on a tear that felt like watching a video game. They went an unreal 16-0 to begin the year, shattering the previous record for the best start to a season. This wasn't just about winning; it was about how they were winning. Curry was playing at an MVP level, launching threes with an unprecedented volume and accuracy, and the entire team was moving the ball with a fluid, beautiful style that was simply unguardable. The Splash Brothers, Klay Thompson and Curry, were a two-man wrecking crew, supported by Draymond Green's all-around brilliance and a deep, versatile roster. Every night felt like a highlight reel. They were consistently blowing out opponents, setting offensive records, and making basketball look like the easiest game in the world. This 16-0 start wasn't just a collection of wins; it was a declaration that they were on a mission to break the Bulls' 72-win record, and they were doing it with style and swagger. The energy around the team was infectious, and the league was collectively in awe. It set the stage for a historic 73-9 regular season, and while the ultimate prize eluded them that year, their start to the season remains one of the most dominant and talked-about in NBA history. It showcased a level of offensive firepower and team cohesion that few teams have ever reached, proving that sometimes, the best way to start a season is by simply being historically great from day one.

Individual Brilliance Igniting a Season

Sometimes, the best NBA season starts aren't just about team success; they're fueled by an individual player who decides to elevate their game to a legendary status right out of the gate. Think about Wilt Chamberlain. In the 1961-62 season, Wilt was an absolute phenomenon. He averaged an absurd 50.4 points per game and grabbed 25.7 rebounds for the entire season. But his start? It was just as monstrous. He was putting up numbers that seemed physically impossible, night after night. For example, he scored 100 points in a single game that season! While not every game was a 100-point explosion, his early-season performance was a clear indicator that he was on a path to achieve statistical greatness never before seen. His dominance wasn't just about scoring; it was about his sheer physical presence and relentless drive. Opposing teams had no answer for him. He was the focal point of his team's offense, and he delivered in spectacular fashion. This kind of individual brilliance can single-handedly carry a team and generate immense excitement. When a player is performing at such an elite level from the get-go, it not only boosts their team's chances of winning but also captures the imagination of fans worldwide. It’s a reminder of what the human body and spirit are capable of achieving. Chamberlain's 1961-62 season is often cited as the single greatest individual season in NBA history, and its incredible start was the undeniable proof that something truly special was happening. It wasn't just about breaking records; it was about redefining what was possible in the game of basketball, making his season start one of the most iconic in league lore.

Kobe Bryant's Fiery Farewell Start (2015-16)

Let's talk about a start that was emotionally charged and incredibly memorable: Kobe Bryant's final season, 2015-16. Now, the Lakers weren't exactly lighting the world on fire in terms of wins, but the narrative and the performances from Kobe were something else. It was clear this was his farewell tour, and he approached it with a blend of defiance and grace. In his opening games, especially the iconic final game where he dropped 60 points, Kobe showed flashes of his old Mamba magic. While he wasn't consistently putting up 30-point games like in his prime, the sheer determination and skill he displayed in those early contests, knowing it was his last dance, were awe-inspiring. Each game felt like a celebration of his career. Fans packed arenas just to witness him play one last time, and he often delivered memorable performances, treating each moment as precious. His ability to still compete at a high level, even in his final year, and to drop a historic 60-point performance in his very last game, is a testament to his enduring talent and competitive spirit. This season start wasn't about championship aspirations; it was about a legend saying goodbye on his own terms, leaving an indelible mark on the league and its fans. The emotion in every arena, the respect from opponents, and the incredible outpouring of love made this season's beginning unforgettable, even if the team's record didn't reflect historic success. It was a masterclass in how to end a career with dignity, passion, and unforgettable performances.

Surprising Ascensions: Teams That Flew Under the Radar

Sometimes, the best NBA season starts come from teams that nobody expects to be good. These are the squads that defy all predictions, coming out of the gate with a fire that catches everyone off guard. A fantastic example is the 1990-91 Golden State Warriors. Before the season, expectations were low. They weren't considered contenders, and many had them pegged for a mediocre year. However, they started the season on an absolute tear, going 10-0. Ten straight wins! Can you believe it? This was a team featuring Chris Mullin, Mitch Richmond, and the emerging Tim Hardaway, playing with an unselfishness and offensive firepower that overwhelmed opponents. They were running, gunning, and making it look easy. This incredible start wasn't just a few lucky wins; it was a statement that this team was for real. They played with a chip on their shoulder, and their fast-paced, high-octane offense was incredibly fun to watch. Fans were buzzing, and the league took notice. This early success gave them the confidence and momentum to have a great season, ultimately making the playoffs and pushing a strong Warriors team to the brink in the first round. It's a perfect illustration of how a surprisingly hot start can completely change the perception of a team, galvanize a fanbase, and set the stage for a memorable year, even if they didn't hoist the trophy. It proved that sometimes, the most exciting stories are the ones where underdogs roar to life from the very first whistle.

The 2003-04 Detroit Pistons: A Defensive Juggernaut

Let's shift gears and talk about a team that built its success on the complete opposite end of the court: defense. The 2003-04 Detroit Pistons were a team that was built for grit, determination, and suffocating defense. While they didn't necessarily start with a historic win streak like some other teams, their style of play from the outset signaled something special. They immediately established themselves as a defensive powerhouse, making it incredibly difficult for opponents to score. Guys like Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, and Chauncey Billups were absolute warriors on that end of the floor. They were physical, relentless, and communicated exceptionally well. This defensive identity was clear from game one, and it set the tone for their entire championship run. They weren't flashy, but they were incredibly effective. Their early games showcased their ability to shut down opposing offenses, grind out wins, and frustrate even the best scorers in the league. This defensive foundation allowed them to compete against anyone, regardless of their offensive firepower. It was a masterclass in team defense, proving that you don't need to score 130 points a game to win championships. The Pistons' start to the 2003-04 season was a clear indication that they were a team built for a long playoff run, grounded in a defensive intensity that would ultimately lead them to an NBA title. It was a testament to the power of collective effort and defensive execution, making their early season dominance in this area truly remarkable and a key component of their eventual championship success.

Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of a Strong Start

As we've seen, the best NBA season starts are more than just a series of early wins; they are a powerful indicator of what's to come. Whether it's a team like the 1995-96 Bulls or the 2015-16 Warriors building an insurmountable lead early on, or an individual like Wilt Chamberlain unleashing unprecedented statistical feats, these beginnings set a tone that resonates throughout the entire season and often into the history books. Even surprising ascensions, like the 1990-91 Warriors' hot start or the defensive juggernaut that was the early 2003-04 Pistons, demonstrate the impact of a strong opening. These NBA season starts create narratives, build confidence, and instill fear in opponents. They give fans something to believe in and provide a foundation for greatness. The momentum generated from a blazing start can carry a team through tough stretches and elevate individual performances. It's the first chapter of a story, and when that chapter is written with dominance, brilliance, or sheer surprise, it guarantees that the rest of the book will be read with rapt attention. The memory of these electrifying beginnings continues to inspire future generations of players and fans, reminding us all that in the NBA, how you start can often be just as important as how you finish. It's a testament to the power of preparation, execution, and sometimes, a little bit of magic, all coming together to create truly unforgettable moments right from the opening tip-off.