The NBA is back in the United Arab Emirates for the fourth straight year, as the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers open the league’s preseason with a pair of games at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The first matchup tips off today, October 2, at 12 p.m. ET (8 p.m. local time), with a rematch set for Saturday, October 4, at 11 a.m. ET.
The Abu Dhabi Games have quickly become one of the NBA’s signature international showcases, joining other global stops this season in Melbourne, Canada, China, Mexico City, Berlin, and London. Since debuting in 2022, the event has brought world-class basketball to the Gulf region while offering fans unique cultural and entertainment experiences.
Storylines to Watch
- New-Look Knicks: After falling in the Eastern Conference Finals last season, New York enters a new era under head coach Mike Brown. With Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges, the Knicks are aiming for their third straight 50-win season and a long-awaited Finals berth.
- Sixers in Transition: Philadelphia endured an injury-riddled 2024–25 campaign. Joel Embiid and Paul George are still recovering from knee surgeries and won’t play in Abu Dhabi, leaving Tyrese Maxey to lead the charge.
- International Spotlight: The games mark the official start of the NBA preseason, giving fans their first look at rotations, rookies, and new systems before the regular season begins on October 21.
The Abu Dhabi Games are more than just basketball. From October 2–5, fans can attend NBA District at Manarat Al Saadiyat, featuring meet-and-greets with NBA legends, interactive basketball activities, exclusive merchandise, and live concerts.
Both games will be broadcast live on NBA TV and available worldwide via NBA League Pass.
From camel rides in the desert to team photo ops at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Knicks and Sixers have already embraced the cultural exchange that makes the Abu Dhabi Games unique. For the league, it’s another step in expanding basketball’s global footprint, and for fans in the UAE, it’s a rare chance to see NBA stars up close.
