The San Antonio Spurs will not be making their much-anticipated return to Paris for the 2026 season of NBA games, according to reports from L'Équipe.
This news was announced on February 24, 2024, following the franchise’s thrilling appearance at the Accor Arena earlier this year. On two occasions, January 23 and January 25, the Spurs faced off against the Indiana Pacers, drawing the excitement of both local fans and international observers, particularly with French star Victor Wembanyama showcasing his skills.
While Wembanyama's first appearances on the Parisian court were met with great enthusiasm, the NBA's shifting priorities have now cast doubt on the future of such events in the French capital. It was indicated by sources close to the matter, reflected by the line, "Il ne serait pas inhabituel dechanger régulièrement d’équipe pour ce type de match," meaning it would not be unusual to change the teams for these matchups, highlighting the unpredictability of the NBA's European schedule.
The league is reportedly considering hosting games in other major cities across Europe instead. Manchester, England, and Berlin, Germany, have emerged as potential candidates to host these exciting events, signaling a possible rotation of host cities moving forward. This strategy aligns with the NBA's long-standing efforts to engage international audiences, having hosted more than 200 games across 20 different countries over the past three decades.
The Spurs' recent games were particularly memorable for the over 15,000 fans who filled the Accor Arena, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of the NBA’s star-studded events. Celebrities—from music figures like Pharrell Williams and DJ Snake to basketball legends like Tony Parker—attended, which not only illustrated the game's popularity but also the cultural crossover basketball has achieved globally.
The absence of the Spurs from Paris in 2026 marks yet another chapter for the NBA as it continues to navigate the dynamics of international game scheduling and fan engagement. While many hoped to see the Spurs return, the league's apparent push toward new cities reflects both challenges and opportunities for the franchises to reach broader audiences.
Fans reveling in the thrilling action of January's games will need to channel their hopes elsewhere, likely training their eyes on potential matchups either across the English Channel or back toward the capital of Germany. The decision not to bring the Spurs back to Paris has sparked discussions among fans about how the league will manage its European commitments.
For now, the excitement surrounding the growth of basketball internationally remains strong. While this decision brings disappointment to many Spurs supporters, it reinforces the ever-evolving nature of sporting events on the global stage. The NBA's outreach might shift focus over seasons to different European cities, but the passion for basketball will endure, connecting fans across borders and cultures.