The NBA is returning to the UAE capital, and we finally know which teams are going to play for the second-ever NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023.
Yep, it’s the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves, which feature some of the biggest stars in the sport.
Yep, that means that all-stars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving from the Mavs will likely be on the court with Karl Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards of the Wolves.
Perhaps we’ll be able to get a sneak peek at whether Luka and Kyrie will figure out a way to bring the Mavs to winning ways, after faltering at the end of the 2022-23 season and missing the playoffs. As they’re two of the best players in the game, it will be fascinating to watch unfold.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the National Basketball Association announced at the Arabian Travel Market that the two teams will be facing off at the Etihad Arena on October 5 and 7, 2023.
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.
Here’s the official logo:
The relationship has already been on full display this year, with the second season of the JR. NBA Abu Dhabi League, which features boys and girls leagues of 450 players aged 11-14 from schools from across AD kicking off back in January, which featured the iconic Allen Iverson coming to cheer the kids on. There were also a series of FIT clinics promoting health and wellness, and an NBA 2K League exhibition which took place in March.
This year’s event will be even bigger than last, with interactive fan events featuring appearances from current and former players also in the cards.
NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023 tickets
With the dates now confirmed, you can find ticket packages here.