Ranking The Best Undefeated Start By Every NBA Team In History

The Cleveland Cavaliers are turning heads with their explosive 13-0 start to the 2024-25 NBA season, sparking excitement among fans and analysts alike. It’s not every day we see a team roll through the first chunk of the season without a single loss, so it’s only natural to start thinking about other memorable season-opening streaks. In this ranking, we’ll take a look back at each NBA team’s best undefeated start and see just how high the Cavs’ current streak might stack up among the all-time greats.

1. 2015-16 Golden State Warriors: 24-0

The Golden State Warriors started the 2015-16 season like an absolute juggernaut, tearing through teams with a record-breaking 24-0 start — the best opening streak in NBA history. Led by an unstoppable MVP-level Stephen Curry and the iconic “Splash Brothers” raining threes, this team didn’t just win games; they dominated with a crazy-fast pace, half-court bombs, and lockdown defense. Every game felt like these Warriors were rewriting what was possible on the court.

And they didn’t slow down — finishing the regular season with a 73-9 record, breaking the Bulls’ old record for the most wins in a season. But the story didn’t have the perfect ending fans hoped for. After a tough Western Conference Finals, the Warriors faced LeBron’s Cleveland Cavaliers in the Finals. Despite being up 3-1, they couldn’t close it out, eventually falling in an epic seven-game series. It was a legendary season, even if it ended with a tough twist.

T2. 1993-94 Houston Rockets: 15-0

The 1993-94 Houston Rockets came out swinging, kicking off their season with a flawless 15-0 run, tying the NBA record at the time for the best start. Hakeem Olajuwon was an absolute force, dominating both ends of the floor and setting the tone for the team’s early success. This hot streak wasn’t just about wins; it was about establishing themselves as serious contenders right from the jump.

Riding the momentum from their blazing start, the Rockets finished the regular season with a solid 58-24 record, clinching the top spot in the Midwest Division. Their postseason journey was nothing short of dramatic, overcoming a 2-0 deficit against the Phoenix Suns in the Western Conference Semifinals and eventually battling the New York Knicks in a gritty seven-game NBA Finals. With Olajuwon leading the charge, Houston secured their first-ever championship, capping off a season that began with an unforgettable undefeated streak.

T2. 2024-25 Cleveland Cavaliers: 15-0

The Cleveland Cavaliers have come out firing this season, starting off with an unbelievable 15-0 record — the best opening streak in their franchise’s history. Under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, the Cavs have been a force on both ends of the floor. Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland are lighting up the scoreboard, while Evan Mobley is making his presence felt with big plays on offense and defense. It’s safe to say Cleveland fans are hyped, and for good reason.

Although a loss to the Celtics gave them their first loss of the season, this start has the Cavs turning heads across the league and even drawing comparisons to legendary season openers, like the Warriors’ 24-0 streak back in 2015-16. With a solid mix of young talent and grit, Cleveland is aiming to keep this momentum rolling and make a serious playoff push. Fans are already dreaming of another deep run — and maybe even a shot at their first title since 2016.

T3. 2002-03 Dallas Mavericks: 14-0

The Dallas Mavericks burst onto the scene in 2002-03 with a scorching 14-0 start, just one win shy of tying the NBA record for the best season opening. Led by the dynamic trio of Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash, and Michael Finley, the Mavs showcased an explosive offense that left opponents scrambling. Their high-octane playstyle not only thrilled fans but also established them as a formidable force in the league.

Building on their red-hot start, Dallas finished the regular season with an impressive 60-22 record, securing the second seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, they battled through two grueling seven-game series against the Portland Trail Blazers and Sacramento Kings, advancing to the Western Conference Finals. Unfortunately, their championship aspirations were derailed when Nowitzki suffered a knee injury in Game 3 against the San Antonio Spurs. Without their star forward, the Mavericks fell in six games, concluding a season that began with so much promise.

T3. 1957-58 Boston Celtics: 14-0

The Boston Celtics came out firing, starting their 1957-58 season with a 14-0 run that set a franchise record and showed the league they meant business. Led by the legendary Bill Russell, who dominated defensively and on the boards, the Celtics played a fast-paced, team-oriented style that overwhelmed their opponents early on. This hot streak established Boston as the clear team to beat that season.

The Celtics rode their momentum to a 49-23 finish, topping the Eastern Division and charging into the playoffs. They made it all the way to the Finals for a rematch with the St. Louis Hawks, but an ankle injury to Russell in Game 3 slowed their title hopes. The Hawks took advantage and won in six games, but the Celtics’ incredible start set the tone for a dynasty in the making.

T5. 1996-97 Chicago Bulls: 12-0

The 1996-97 Chicago Bulls picked up right where they left off after their historic 72-win season, starting with a flawless 12-0 record. Led by Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, and supported by the powerhouse defense of Dennis Rodman, the Bulls looked nearly unbeatable. Their balanced approach, blending elite scoring and stifling defense, left opponents struggling to compete and added fuel to their quest for another title.

That season, the Bulls finished with a 69-13 record, securing the top seed in the East. In the playoffs, they bulldozed their way to the NBA Finals, facing off against the Utah Jazz in a memorable series. Chicago prevailed in six games, clinching their fifth championship in seven years, with Jordan capturing Finals MVP honors once again. Their 12-0 start set the tone for yet another dominant season.

T5. 1982-83 Oklahoma City Thunder: 12-0

In the 1982-83 NBA season, the Seattle SuperSonics, now known as the Oklahoma City Thunder, launched their campaign with a remarkable 12-0 start. This impressive beginning showcased the team’s potential and set high expectations for the season. Key players like Gus Williams and Jack Sikma were instrumental during this streak, delivering consistent performances that fueled the team’s early success.

Building on their strong start, the SuperSonics concluded the regular season with a solid 48-34 record, securing the third spot in the Pacific Division. However, their postseason journey was cut short. Facing the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs, Seattle was swept in two games, bringing an abrupt end to a season that had begun with such promise.

T7. 1997-98 Los Angeles Lakers: 11-0

The 1997-98 Los Angeles Lakers burst out of the gates with an 11-0 start, showing off a young core that included Shaquille O’Neal, Eddie Jones, and a young Kobe Bryant. This exciting group played fast-paced, high-energy basketball that left fans and opponents alike buzzing. Their impressive start highlighted their potential as a rising force in the Western Conference, with Shaq dominating in the paint and the team’s depth providing solid support.

The Lakers finished the season with a strong 61-21 record, earning the fourth seed in a tough Western Conference. In the playoffs, they made it to the Western Conference Finals but fell to the Utah Jazz in a tough four-game sweep. Although they didn’t secure a championship that year, their 11-0 start foreshadowed the Lakers’ success in the coming years, especially as Kobe continued to develop into a future superstar.

T7. 1997-98 Atlanta Hawks: 11-0

Few teams could match the firepower and defensive grit the 1997-98 Atlanta Hawks brought to the table, as they stormed out of the gate with an 11-0 record. With Dikembe Mutombo anchoring the defense and Steve Smith knocking down shots, the Hawks became a tough matchup for any team. Their strong chemistry and balance between offense and defense set the tone for a season full of promise.

By the end of the regular season, Atlanta posted a respectable 50-32 record, comfortably landing a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. However, their postseason hopes were dashed in the second round, where they faced Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls and fell short. Though they didn’t reach the Finals, the Hawks’ blazing start highlighted their potential and showed the league they were a team on the rise.

T7. 1990-91 Portland Trail Blazers: 11-0

From day one of the 1990-91 season, the Portland Trail Blazers looked unstoppable, launching into an 11-0 start that had fans buzzing. With Clyde Drexler leading the charge, backed by strong performances from Terry Porter and Jerome Kersey, the Blazers played with intensity on both ends of the court. Their quick start showcased a team firing on all cylinders, determined to dominate the Western Conference.

The Blazers kept up their strong play, finishing the season with a remarkable 63-19 record, securing the top seed in the West. Though they fought hard in the playoffs, their run ended in the Western Conference Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite the disappointment, Portland’s electric start was a highlight in a season that underscored their status as a true title contender.

11. 2000-01 Philadelphia 76ers: 10-0

Kicking off the 2000-01 season, the Philadelphia 76ers were an absolute powerhouse, rolling through their first 10 games without a single loss. Allen Iverson was at the heart of it all, putting up jaw-dropping performances night after night and showing why he was one of the most unstoppable players in the league with an MVP award later on. With Coach Larry Brown at the helm, this team combined AI’s scoring magic with tough defense, courtesy of defensive anchors like Dikembe Mutombo.

The Sixers didn’t slow down after their hot start, finishing the season with a 56-26 record and claiming the top seed in the Eastern Conference. They battled their way to the NBA Finals, where they faced the powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers. Although they ultimately fell in five games, Philly’s incredible start and Iverson’s memorable run, including that famous Game 1 win, made this season unforgettable for Sixers fans.

T12. 2022-23 Milwaukee Bucks: 9-0

The 2022-23 Milwaukee Bucks wasted no time making a statement, kicking off their season with a perfect 9-0 record. Giannis Antetokounmpo was in peak form, dominating games with his mix of size, speed, and skill, and reminding everyone why he’s a perennial MVP contender. Alongside him, Jrue Holiday brought his usual lockdown defense and clutch scoring, while Brook Lopez protected the paint like a fortress. The Bucks’ depth and chemistry were on full display, with every player stepping up to keep the streak alive.

Milwaukee’s early-season fire carried them to a strong regular season finish, ending with the best record in the league at 58-24. But while fans had high hopes for another championship run, the playoffs didn’t go as planned. In a shocking upset, they were eliminated in the first round by the Miami Heat. Even with the disappointing end, that 9-0 start showed just how dominant the Bucks could be when everything clicked.

T12. 2014-15 Indiana Pacers: 9-0

Right from the jump, the 2014-15 Indiana Pacers defied expectations with a blazing 9-0 start, surprising fans and critics alike. Although dealing with injuries and lineup shifts, the team leaned into their gritty, defense-heavy style to lock down opponents and grind out wins. Roy Hibbert held it down in the paint, while the rest of the roster stepped up in Paul George’s absencet with relentless energy and resilience.

As the season wore on, though, the Pacers struggled to keep up that early momentum and eventually cooled off, finishing with a 38-44 record, just shy of the playoffs. While their hot streak didn’t lead to a deep postseason run, that 9-0 start was a reminder of their toughness and ability to fight through adversity.

T12. 1970-71 Detroit Pistons: 9-0

In the 1970-71 season, the Detroit Pistons shocked the league with an impressive 9-0 start, a run that showcased their talent and grit. Led by the scoring power of Dave Bing and supported by the steady presence of Bob Lanier in the paint, the Pistons looked like a team on a mission. Their offense flowed smoothly, and they put up big numbers every night, catching opponents off guard with their early-season dominance.

But even with that strong start, the Pistons couldn’t maintain their momentum through the rest of the season. They finished with a 45-37 record, which was solid but not quite enough for a deep playoff push in a competitive league.

T15. 2010-11 New Orleans Pelicans: 8-0

From the get-go, the 2010-11 New Orleans Hornets (now the Pelicans) made a statement with their flawless 8-0 start, capturing the league’s attention. Chris Paul was at the center of it all, showcasing his elite playmaking and leadership skills, while David West provided consistent scoring and Emeka Okafor anchored the defense. Together, they created a balanced, competitive team that knew how to close games.

The Hornets rode this strong start to a solid 46-36 season record, securing a spot in the playoffs. They went toe-to-toe with the reigning champion Los Angeles Lakers in the first round, extending the series to six intense games before their season ended. Although their journey stopped there, that undefeated streak was a thrilling beginning, hinting at the heights the team could reach under CP3’s guidance.

T15. 1976-77 Denver Nuggets: 8-0

From the first tip-off of the 1976-77 season, the Denver Nuggets hit the ground running, racking up an 8-0 record that had everyone paying attention. David Thompson’s scoring prowess and Dan Issel’s strength on the boards made the Nuggets an offensive powerhouse, embodying the fast-paced, relentless style that defined Denver’s game. Each win in that streak underscored their potential to be a dominant force in the league.

That momentum carried them to a solid 50-32 finish, securing a strong playoff position in the Western Conference. They advanced to the conference semifinals, putting up a fight before ultimately being eliminated by the Trail Blazers. While they didn’t reach the Finals, their thrilling 8-0 start gave fans plenty of reason to believe this team was on the rise.

T17. 1993-94 New York Knicks: 7-0

The 1993-94 New York Knicks came out with fire, kicking off their season with an impressive 7-0 streak that set the tone for a gritty, determined campaign. Led by Patrick Ewing’s dominance in the paint and John Starks’ fearless play, the Knicks were a physical, hard-nosed team that thrived on defense and intensity. Their early success showed that they were ready to compete with the best, and Madison Square Garden was buzzing with excitement.

This hot start helped propel the Knicks to a 57-25 regular season record, clinching the second seed in the Eastern Conference. They battled their way through the playoffs, eventually reaching the NBA Finals for a showdown with the Houston Rockets. In a hard-fought, seven-game series, they came up just short, but the 1993-94 season, marked by that 7-0 start, remains a memorable chapter in Knicks history as they showed the league their toughness and resilience.

T17. 1974-75 Washington Wizards: 7-0

Starting the 1974-75 season with a perfect 7-0, the Washington Bullets (now Wizards) quickly looked like a team on a mission. With Elvin Hayes scoring big and Wes Unseld dominating the boards, the Bullets showed off a balanced, powerful lineup that made them instant contenders.

That early momentum propelled them to a 60-22 finish, securing the top spot in the East. They pushed all the way to the NBA Finals, though they ultimately fell to the Golden State Warriors. Despite the tough end, that undefeated start set the stage for one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history.

T19. 2018-19 Toronto Raptors: 6-0

The 2018-19 Toronto Raptors wasted no time making a statement, kicking off the season with a solid 6-0 start. With newly acquired Kawhi Leonard leading the way and Kyle Lowry providing steady playmaking, the Raptors quickly showed they were a force to be reckoned with. Their hot start hinted at the potential for a special season under head coach Nick Nurse.

The Raptors kept the momentum going, finishing the season with a strong 58-24 record. In the playoffs, they made an unforgettable run, eventually defeating the Golden State Warriors in the Finals to claim their first-ever NBA championship. That 6-0 start was just the beginning of a historic season that would change the franchise forever.

T19. 2014-15 Memphis Grizzlies: 6-0

Right out of the gate, the 2014-15 Memphis Grizzlies looked like a team on a mission, posting a 6-0 start that highlighted their signature “Grit and Grind” style. With Marc Gasol anchoring the defense and Mike Conley leading the charge at point guard, the Grizzlies leaned on their physical, defense-driven approach, making life tough for every opponent.

This early success propelled Memphis to a 55-27 record and a solid playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Their run ultimately ended in the second round against the Golden State Warriors, but that 6-0 start stood out as a testament to the Grizzlies’ toughness and unity that season.

T19. 2001-02 Minnesota Timberwolves: 6-0

The 2001-02 season saw the Minnesota Timberwolves burst onto the scene with a strong 6-0 start, signaling they were ready to compete. Kevin Garnett led the charge with his trademark intensity and all-around game, while Wally Szczerbiak provided solid scoring support. This early streak showcased the Wolves’ chemistry and set high expectations among fans.

Minnesota carried that momentum through the season, finishing with a solid 50-32 record and securing a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Though they were eliminated in the first round by the Dallas Mavericks, the Wolves’ undefeated start highlighted their potential and gave a glimpse of what could be accomplished with Garnett at the helm.

T19. 1998-99 Utah Jazz: 6-0

The 1998-99 Utah Jazz came out firing with a flawless 6-0 start, showing they were still a force to be reckoned with in the West. Led by the iconic duo of Karl Malone and John Stockton, the Jazz leaned on their tried-and-true chemistry and efficient play to dominate early. Their strong start demonstrated that Utah wasn’t ready to fade from the championship conversation just yet.

This momentum carried the Jazz to a 37-13 record in the shortened season, securing a high playoff seed. Though their postseason ended in the second round against the Portland Trail Blazers, that early winning streak reminded everyone of the strength and resilience that defined the Stockton-Malone era in Utah.

T23. 2011-12 Miami Heat: 5-0

From the first game of the 2011-12 season, the Miami Heat looked laser-focused, opening with a strong 5-0 run that showed they were back with a vengeance. LeBron James was playing at an MVP level right out of the gate, a form that would eventually earn him the league MVP award that year. Alongside him, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh brought intensity and balance, helping the Heat set a high standard early on.

Miami went on to finish the lockout-shortened season with a 46-20 record, securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, they found their rhythm and powered through to the Finals, where they took down the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games. That season, marked by LeBron’s first NBA title, began with the energy and purpose displayed in their undefeated start.

T23. 1984-85 Phoenix Suns: 5-0

From the season’s first tip-off in 1984-85, the Suns came in hot, stringing together five straight wins that had fans buzzing with excitement. Walter Davis was unstoppable on offense, and Larry Nance’s athleticism on defense made them a tough matchup for anyone. This early winning streak gave a glimpse of what Phoenix might be capable of that year.

As the games went on, though, the Suns hit some rough patches, eventually wrapping up the season with a 36-46 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. Even without a postseason appearance, that fiery 5-0 start left fans hopeful and showed there was something special to build on in Phoenix.

T25. 2020-21 Orlando Magic: 4-0

The Orlando Magic came out swinging in the 2020-21 season, surprising everyone with a strong 4-0 start. Nikola Vučević was a force in the paint, racking up double-doubles like clockwork, and Markelle Fultz was confidently running the floor, making the team look sharper than expected. This early streak had fans excited, thinking maybe the Magic had something special brewing.

But as luck would have it, injuries started piling up, with Fultz’s season-ending ACL tear being a huge blow. The team struggled to keep up the pace and eventually fell out of playoff contention. Still, that 4-0 start was a fun flash of potential in what turned into a tough season, giving fans something to cheer for, if only briefly.

T25. 2017-18 Los Angeles Clippers: 4-0

Starting off the 2017-18 season, the Los Angeles Clippers came out firing, surprising fans with a 4-0 start that brought a lot of optimism to the year. With Blake Griffin leading the way after the Chris Paul era, the Clippers showed a new style, mixing athleticism and grit to take down opponents. Griffin was doing it all, scoring, rebounding, and even dishing out assists, while DeAndre Jordan anchored the defense.

But as the season wore on, injuries and roster changes like Griffin’s and Paul’s exits shook things up, and the Clippers struggled to keep that early momentum. They finished just outside of playoff contention, leaving fans wondering what might have been if they’d stayed put.

T25. 2017-18 San Antonio Spurs: 4-0

Hitting the ground running, the San Antonio Spurs opened their 2017-18 season with a promising 4-0 streak, proving they were still a tough squad despite Kawhi Leonard’s absence. LaMarcus Aldridge embraced his role as the go-to guy, putting up impressive numbers, while veterans like Pau Gasol and Manu Ginóbili provided leadership and stability that kept the team competitive early on.

The Spurs finished the season with a 47-35 record, securing the seventh seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, they faced a challenging first-round matchup against the second-seeded Golden State Warriors. With a valiant effort, the Spurs fell in five games to the defending champions, ending their season earlier than hoped.

T25. 2002-03 Brooklyn Nets: 4-0

Starting off with a bang, the Nets stormed into the 2002-03 season with a 4-0 run, letting the league know they were out for redemption after last year’s Finals loss. Jason Kidd was orchestrating the offense to perfection, while Kenyon Martin and Richard Jefferson brought the energy and scoring punch to keep opponents on their heels.

Fueled by this strong start, the Nets finished with a 49-33 record and tore through the Eastern Conference playoffs, sweeping their first two rounds. They made it back to the Finals but ultimately fell to the Spurs in six games. That initial 4-0 burst, though, showed their hunger and determination to stay at the top.

T25. 2001-02 Sacramento Kings: 4-0

The 2001-02 season saw the Kings come out firing with a perfect 4-0 start, signaling they were ready to contend. Chris Webber and Peja Stojakovic led an electric offense, while Mike Bibby’s clutch playmaking kept their momentum rolling. The Kings’ flashy, fast-paced style made them one of the most exciting teams to watch and a nightmare to defend.

With this strong start, the Kings went on to finish with a 61-21 record, the best in the league. In a memorable playoff run, they reached the Western Conference Finals and took the Lakers to a dramatic seven-game series, narrowly missing a Finals appearance. That 4-0 opening was just the start of a season fans still talk about as one of the best in Kings history.

30. 2021-22 Charlotte Hornets: 3-0

In 2021-22, the Charlotte Hornets kicked off the season with an energetic 3-0 streak, hinting at the excitement to come. LaMelo Ball was in top form, dazzling fans with his court vision and creative play, while Miles Bridges brought athleticism and scoring that gave Charlotte an edge. Their youthful energy and up-tempo style made them a fun team to watch and tough to handle on the court.

Although their start showed promise, the Hornets couldn’t fully sustain that momentum, finishing with a 43-39 record and falling short in the Play-In Tournament. Still, that early spark gave fans plenty to be hopeful about as the young core continued to grow, setting the stage for the Hornets’ future ambitions.