Get first basket predictions today guided by expert analysis of Friday's NBA slate.
Our NBA first basket predictions for October 24, 2025, are based on Friday's latest data and matchups.
Our NBA first basket predictions for Friday, October 24, 2025, have landed—with Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks the most likely player to score the first basket based on the latest Dimers Pro simulation data.
Friday's first basket predictions come from our NBA first basket odds and player projections, which highlight not only first basket probabilities, but also projected points, rebounds, assists and more for every player on today's basketball slate.
Who will score the first basket tonight? [October 24, 2025]
According to our data-driven analysis, the most likely NBA player to score the first basket in any of today's games is Giannis Antetokounmpo, with a probability of 18.2%.
Player (Team)
FB Probability
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks)
18.2%
Ja Morant (Grizzlies)
17.6%
Zion Williamson (Pelicans)
16.7%
Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers)
16.0%
Luka Doncic (Lakers)
15.8%
Cade Cunningham (Pistons)
15.8%
Anthony Davis (Mavericks)
15.6%
Cam Thomas (Nets)
15.5%
Devin Booker (Suns)
15.2%
Victor Wembanyama (Spurs)
14.3%
Following Antetokounmpo closely are Ja Morant at 17.6% and Zion Williamson at 16.7%.
Donovan Mitchell and Luka Doncic are among those in the top 10, with the full list of first basket projections for Friday available via today’s NBA player projections.
Ja Morant is one of the most likely NBA players to score the first basket on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Best NBA first basket picks [10/24/2025]
After simulating the outcome of today's NBA matchups 10,000 times each, our trusted predictive analytics model has found the best NBA first basket betting pick for Friday.
Our model has identified the best NBA first basket bet for Friday's NBA slate in the game between the Celtics and Knicks. The bet is on Neemias Queta (BOS) at odds of +1500 with FanDuel Sportsbook, with an edge of 6.9% according to our analysis.
Although Queta doesn't feature in our model's top 10 most likely first basket scorers for Friday's NBA slate, he does present the best betting opportunity for those looking to gain an edge on the market.
For October 24, 2025, our NBA first basket predictions spotlight standout players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ja Morant and Zion Williamson—all of whom are among the top projected chances to open the scoring in today’s games. But when it comes to +EV betting, it’s Neemias Queta who emerges as the top pick, offering a calculated 6.9% edge at +1500 odds.
These projections are built from 10,000 simulations, giving you a reliable foundation for smarter prop betting. Always wager with care—help is available at 1-800-GAMBLER if you or someone close to you needs support.
Damien Souness leverages over 15 years of experience to create engaging content focused on sports, online gaming and wagering. As Chief Innovation Officer at Cipher Sports Technology Group, the parent company of Dimers, he offers strategic insights and innovative solutions to enhance the player experience.
