The Pelicans Land Down Under: NBA Makes Historic First with Preseason Games in Australia

History is about to be made! The New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up for an unprecedented journey to Australia, set to play two thrilling preseason games against the Brisbane Bullets of the National Basketball League (NBL). This marks a monumental first for the NBA, as a team will host preseason contests on Australian soil, deepening the league's global footprint and bringing the excitement of professional basketball closer to eager fans Down Under.

The action kicks off on October 10th in Adelaide, followed by a second electrifying matchup on October 12th in Brisbane.

While the NBA has previously held exhibition games featuring teams like the Utah Jazz against the Sydney Kings in 2023, this tour elevates the experience, showcasing an NBA team playing its actual preseason schedule in Australia. It’s a testament to the league’s unwavering commitment to international growth and fostering a passionate global fanbase.

For the Pelicans, this trip holds special significance, particularly for one of their own: Australian-born Dyson Daniels.

Daniels, a rising star, will have the incredible opportunity to play in front of his home crowd, a dream come true for any athlete. His presence adds an emotional layer to the tour, connecting the NBA's global aspirations with local pride. Fellow Pelican star Brandon Ingram is also expected to be a key player during these highly anticipated games, promising top-tier NBA talent for Australian spectators.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum have long championed the league’s international expansion, viewing these types of initiatives as crucial for cultivating new generations of fans and athletes worldwide.

Ralph Rivera, the NBA's head of international operations, reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of live games in showcasing the league’s dynamism and engaging communities beyond North America.

The NBL also stands to benefit immensely from this historic collaboration. Sharing the court with an NBA franchise offers invaluable exposure and experience for the Brisbane Bullets, further cementing the NBL's reputation as a strong and competitive league.

It's a win-win for basketball enthusiasts and professionals alike, igniting passion for the sport and inspiring future stars in Australia.

This groundbreaking tour is more than just a series of games; it's a cultural exchange, a celebration of basketball's global appeal, and a powerful statement about the NBA's vision for a truly worldwide sport.

Australian fans are in for a treat, as they witness firsthand the intensity and skill of NBA basketball, right in their own backyard.