Basketball is set to return to the UAE capital for the second-ever NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023, and we’re finally going to find out which teams will play next on May 2.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the National Basketball Association have scheduled a press conference for the beginning of next month at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.
The multi-year collaboration kicked off last fall, when the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks faced off in the league’s first ever games in the Arabian Gulf, with stars including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Trae Young facing off in the historic contest.
The event was a cultural moment in the UAE, with NBA legends including Shaquille O’Neal, Vince Carter and Isiah Thomas also coming to town.
The NBA also unveiled the official logo for this year’s events.
The relationship has continued already this year, with the second season of the JR. NBA Abu Dhabi League, featuring boys and girls leagues comprised of 450 players aged 11-14 from schools from across the emirate kicking off in January, with the iconic Allen Iverson also joining the festivities.
This year’s event will be equally as big, with interactive fan events featuring appearances from current and former players also possible. The collaboration has already seen a series of FIT clinics promoting health and wellness, and an NBA 2K League exhibition which took place in March.
We’ll have all the details for you on May 2, so stay tuned for more.
While the dates haven’t been confirmed yet, you can already find ticket packages here.
In the mean time, let’s speculate. Perhaps Lebron James and the Lakers face off against Jayson Tatum and the Celtics, continuing the historic rivalry between the two teams? Maybe? Please? Can we will that into existence? Ok sorry my bias is coming through here a bit. Without a doubt, no matter who they select, with the depth of talent in this league, this is going to be a moment for the ages.