Get first basket predictions today driven by expert analysis of Monday's NBA slate.
Our NBA first basket predictions for December 1, 2025, are based on Monday's latest data and matchups.
Our NBA first basket predictions for Cyber Monday, are live—with Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks the most likely player to score the first basket based on the latest Dimers Pro simulation data.
Monday's first basket predictions come straight 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? [December 1, 2025]
According to our data-driven analysis, the most likely NBA player to score the first basket across all of today's games is Giannis Antetokounmpo, with a probability of 18.2%.
Player (Team)
FB Probability
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks)
18.2%
Nikola Jokic (Nuggets)
16.4%
Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers)
15.5%
CJ McCollum (Wizards)
15.0%
Anthony Davis (Mavericks)
14.8%
Cade Cunningham (Pistons)
14.8%
Pascal Siakam (Pacers)
14.3%
Kawhi Leonard (Clippers)
14.2%
Dillon Brooks (Suns)
13.5%
Lauri Markkanen (Jazz)
13.1%
Following Antetokounmpo closely are Nikola Jokic at 16.4% and Donovan Mitchell at 15.5%.
CJ McCollum and Anthony Davis also feature, with the full list of first basket projections for Monday available via today’s NBA player projections.
Donovan Mitchell is one of the most likely NBA players to score the first basket on Monday, December 1, 2025.
Best NBA first basket picks [12/1/2025]
Having simulated the result of today's NBA slate thousands of times, our predictive model has found the best NBA first basket betting pick for Monday.
Our model has identified the best NBA first basket bet for today's NBA slate in the game between the Suns and Lakers. The bet is on Dillon Brooks (PHX) at odds of +950 with FanDuel Sportsbook, with an edge of 4.0% according to our analysis.
Not only does Brooks present an edge according to the model, but he is also among our top 10 most likely first basket scorers for today, as noted in the list above.
For December 1, 2025, our NBA first basket predictions showcase star players including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic and Donovan Mitchell—all of whom are among the top projected chances to open the scoring in today’s games. But when it comes to betting value, it’s Dillon Brooks who emerges as the top play, offering a calculated 4.0% edge at +950 odds.
These projections are built from 10,000 simulations, giving you a reliable starting point 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.
