Mavericks vs. Spurs Season Opener Draws Fans to Dallas on Oct. 22
When Dallas Mavericks host the San Antonio Spurs on Oct 22, 2025, the Texas rivalry snaps back into the spotlight at the American Airlines Center. The game, tagged as the 2025‑2026 NBA season openerAmerican Airlines Center, kicks off a slate of nine matchups between the two clubs, and tickets are already moving fast.
Season‑Opener Details and Ticket Options
Ticketing platforms are listing seats as low as $46, but the average price hovers around $246, according to SeatPick. SeatGeek shows a similar floor at $53, with a “Deal Score” that flags the best value based on historic demand. For fans who crave the best seat without breaking the bank, the upper‑level sections near the 3‑point line often dip below $100 on game day.
All major vendors – SeatGeek, StubHub, Vivid Seats – include purchase protection guarantees. StubHub, for example, brands its coverage as the "FanProtect" guarantee, while SeatGeek notes every ticket is "protected" against event changes. Most buyers are opting for mobile delivery: the SeatGeek app pushes a QR code straight to the phone, letting fans skip the box office and head straight to the gate.
What to Expect at the American Airlines Center
The arena, which opened in 2001, seats roughly 20,000 for basketball and offers a mix of club‑level lounges, a massive scoreboard, and a revolving roster of eateries. Dallas fans know the venue’s parking can fill up quickly, so arriving an hour before tip‑off is wise. Security screening takes about 10‑15 minutes, followed by a short walk to the concourse where concessions line the perimeter.
Children under a certain age may ride on an adult’s lap, though the exact limit varies – it’s best to double‑check the arena’s policy on its website before you go. The venue also offers curbside drop‑off and a valet service for those who prefer a hands‑free arrival.
Road Map of Mavericks‑Spurs Showdowns in 2025‑26
Beyond the Oct 22 opener, the schedule piles on a cluster of games in late October and early November: Oct 24, Oct 26, Oct 27, Oct 29, Nov 2, and Nov 3. The two sides meet again on Feb 5, 2026, giving fans plenty of chances to catch the action in both cities. All dates were released with the NBA’s official schedule in August 2025, and tickets typically go on sale within days of that release, according to Vivid Seats.
Historically, the rivalry has produced 12 playoff series, with the Mavericks holding a 7‑5 edge. Coach Jason Kidd (Mavericks) told reporters last season that “every game against San Antonio feels like a test of our grit.” Across the border, veteran coach Gregg Popovich hinted that “the intensity is mutual, and that’s why fans love it.”
Fan Tips: Parking, Policies, and Game‑Day Hacks
- Buy a parking pass early – the lot next to the arena (Lot A) costs $15, while the farther lot (Lot C) drops to $7 but requires a short shuttle ride.
- Use the arena’s official app to order food ahead of time; the average wait drops from 12 minutes to under 3.
- Bring a reusable water bottle – the venue’s refill stations are free and help cut down on single‑use plastic.
- Take advantage of the free Wi‑Fi; it’s a good time to snap the massive scoreboard’s light‑show videos.
For those traveling from San Antonio, the Frost Bank Center offers a shuttle to the downtown H‑Line train, which drops you off a few stops from the arena. A quick Uber ride from the train station typically costs $12‑$15.
Why This Rivalry Still Matters
Beyond the numbers, the Mavericks‑Spurs matchup is a cultural touchstone for Texas basketball. Both franchises have deep ties to their communities: the Mavericks, owned by Mark Cuban, heavily invest in local tech startups, while the Spurs have a reputation for “the Spurs Way,” a disciplined, community‑first philosophy championed by Popovich.
This season’s opener arrives after a year of roster churn – Dallas added a veteran sharpshooter in the free‑agent market, and San Antonio re‑signed its star forward on a three‑year deal. That shift could tip the balance, making the opening night a prophetic glimpse of the division race that lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost for the Mavericks‑Spurs opener?
Lowest‑priced tickets start around $46 on SeatPick, while the average price sits near $246. SeatGeek lists a similar floor at $53, and both sites offer price‑tracking tools to help fans snag a better deal.
What time should I arrive at the arena?
Fans are advised to get there at least 60 minutes before tip‑off (8:30 PM CT). That window gives enough time for parking, security screening, and grabbing a bite before the action starts.
Are there any child‑ticket policies?
The American Airlines Center typically allows children under a certain age to sit on an adult’s lap, but the exact age limit varies. Check the venue’s official policy page or call guest services for the most up‑to‑date information.
How can I avoid long lines for food?
Download the arena’s mobile app and place your food order ahead of time. Orders are ready for pickup at designated windows, cutting the typical concession wait from 12 minutes to under 3.
When are the next Mavericks‑Spurs games after the opener?
After Oct 22, the teams clash on Oct 24, Oct 26, Oct 27, Oct 29, Nov 2, Nov 3, and then again on Feb 5, 2026. All dates are part of the 2025‑26 NBA regular season schedule released in August 2025.
