NBA’s International Outreach in Abu Dhabi
The NBA continues its tradition of international outreach, as the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers journeyed to Abu Dhabi for their preseason doubleheader starting Thursday. This event marks the fourth consecutive year that the league has organized games in the UAE, taking place at the Etihad Arena located on Yas Island. This match is part of a broader series, showcasing seven international games throughout both the preseason and regular season.
Engaging with Local Culture
Before they face each other on the hardwood, both teams engaged in a variety of activities to immerse themselves in the local culture. Their itinerary included adventures in the desert and rounds of golf, displaying the team’s commitment to experiencing their surroundings. The atmosphere was certainly festive as Knicks coach Mike Brown captured the welcome ceremony on his phone, while Knicks shooting guard Landry Shamet and players from the 76ers, including Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr., interacted with a falcon—an iconic image of Emirati heritage.
The Knicks’ excursion mirrored past international trips, reminiscent of the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves’ camel rides two years back. This time, the likes of Patrick Ewing and OG Anunoby enjoyed a unique experience atop camels, while Josh Hart also posed with a falcon, reinforcing the connection between the teams and their host country.
Memorable Moments
A standout moment of their trip was captured at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, among the largest mosques in the world, where the Philadelphia 76ers snapped a team photo. This architectural marvel honors the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and served as an impressive backdrop for the players.
Despite being outside of their usual environment, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse and guard Kyle Lowry took the opportunity to work on their golf swings—demonstrating that sportsmanship knows no bounds, regardless of location. For the youthful fans in attendance, the Knicks hosted a creative session where they personalized their sneakers through drawing and coloring, showcasing their artistic flair under the hashtag #InAbuDhabi.
Conclusion
As they prepare for their game, both teams are not just focusing on basketball, but are also embracing the opportunity to connect with the culture and community of Abu Dhabi, further enhancing the global reach of the NBA.
