The NBA is set to make history as the New Orleans Pelicans, led by the dynamic Zion Williamson, are scheduled to play two exhibition games in Australia this upcoming October. This landmark event marks the first time an NBA team has ever played down under, thrilling basketball fans across the region.<\/p>
According to The Herald Sun, the Pelicans will take on two Melbourne-based teams at the city’s renowned Rod Laver Arena. On Friday, October 3, the Pelicans will face the Melbourne United, and on Sunday, October 5, they will compete against the South East Melbourne Phoenix. This exciting series of games is anticipated to not only captivate local fans but also showcase the growing respect and prominence of the National Basketball League (NBL) internationally.
Australian basketball legend Andrew Gaze, who co-hosts Fox Footy’s Bounce, expressed his pride and excitement about the upcoming games. “To see the NBL’s evolution from playing at the Albert Park stadium to now performing on the biggest stage against an NBA team is absolutely amazing. It showcases how respected the league is on a global stage,” Gaze remarked.
The Pelicans are entering this historic venture amid struggles during their current NBA season. With disheartening standings placing them fourth from the bottom, the team is aiming for redemption. They currently have their eyes on the upcoming Draft Lottery, holding onto the hope of acquiring the coveted No.1 pick. This pick is likely to go to Duke University standout Cooper Flagg, whose emergence has created waves through college basketball. The Pelicans hold approximately a 12.5% chance at the top pick behind the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Charlotte Hornets, who each have 14% odds.
Alongside Williamson, the Pelicans roster includes notable players such as CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray, who will surely attract attention and bolster the team’s competitive edge. The prospect of NBA games is bolstering anticipation not just for the fans but for the NBL as well, reinforcing its development as both leagues continue to grow.
Interestingly, this upcoming event is not the only notable game to be hosted by Melbourne, as plans are also underway for the city to host the country’s first NFL game scheduled for 2026, marking another significant milestone for sports fans down under.
This initiative by the NBA to play exhibition games on Australian soil is expected to ignite local enthusiasm for basketball, inspiring future generations of Australian players. The excitement surrounding the Pelicans’ games will serve as not only entertainment but also as encouragement for young athletes aspiring to follow their dreams on global stages.
For avid basketball watchers, the Pelicans’ historically significant visit promises thrilling gameplay accentuated by local fanfare. With such lofty ambitions, Australian basketball and its leagues will no doubt continue to rise, fostering sportsmanship and developing player talent to showcase on the world stage.