The typical duration of a professional basketball contest in the National Basketball Association is a figure of interest to fans, analysts, and stakeholders. It represents the period from the opening tip-off to the final buzzer, encompassing playing time, timeouts, intermissions, and any reviews or stoppages. For example, a contest officially lasting two hours and fifteen minutes falls within the expected parameters.
Understanding this timeframe is crucial for scheduling broadcasts, managing player fatigue, and estimating viewing commitments. Historically, variations in the pace of play, rule changes related to fouls and clock management, and the number of television timeouts have influenced its evolution. A consistent benchmark allows for better planning and analysis of game dynamics.