The NBA first round is a best‑of‑7 series, so it can be anywhere from 4 to 7 games.

Quick Scoop

  • Each first‑round matchup is played in a best‑of‑7 format.
  • First team to win 4 games advances to the next round.
  • That means:
    • Minimum possible: 4 games (a sweep, 4–0).
    • Maximum possible: 7 games (series goes to Game 7).
  • This format has been standard for years across all four rounds of the playoffs (first round, conference semifinals, conference finals, NBA Finals).

In forum debates, fans sometimes wish the first round would go back to best‑of‑5 to increase upsets and shorten the playoffs, but the league keeps best‑of‑7 because it’s more games and usually rewards the better team.

TL;DR: First round = best‑of‑7, 4–7 games total.