What major basketball championship series began in April 2026?

The basketball world turns its attention to a major championship series that typically tips off in April each year: the NBA playoffs. This highly anticipated postseason tournament crowns the champion of the National Basketball Association, bringing together the top teams from both the Eastern and Western Conferences. It's a thrilling culmination of the regular season, where teams battle through a grueling schedule to earn a coveted spot.

The NBA playoffs are structured as a single-elimination tournament, featuring 16 teams in total – eight from each conference. Each round consists of a best-of-seven series, meaning a team must win four games to advance to the next stage. This format ensures that only the most resilient and skilled teams progress, leading to intense competition and memorable moments. The stakes are incredibly high, as teams vie for the ultimate prize in professional basketball, the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy.

Fans eagerly follow the journey from the first round through the conference semifinals, conference finals, and finally, the NBA Finals. The atmosphere in arenas during playoff games is electric, with every possession and every shot carrying immense weight. It's a time when star players often elevate their game, and unexpected heroes emerge, creating a rich tapestry of basketball history and unforgettable performances that captivate audiences worldwide.