What happened: Six players have scored 50 or more points in a regular-season opener. Michael Jordan stands as the only player to do it more than once. The 2026-27 season tips off soon on NBC.

Why it matters: Fifty-point openers remain rare with fresh defenses and full rotations on night one. The repeat distinction separates Jordan from every other high-scoring opener. Opening week establishes the first scoring baseline for stars entering the new season.

What to watch: Watch opening-night matchups and star minutes once the 2026-27 games begin.