The NBA’s Return to the UK
The NBA is set to make its long-awaited return to the UK in 2026, marking its first games in the region since 2019. Fans can look forward to a matchup between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies at London’s O2 Arena on January 18, 2026. This highly anticipated event will be the league’s first regular-season game in Britain after the Washington Wizards defeated the New York Knicks back in early 2019.
Manchester Joins the Excitement
In 2027, Manchester will also join in on the excitement by hosting an NBA game at the Co-Op Arena, a significant development as it will be the city’s first regular-season encounter. The specific teams participating in this Manchester game will be announced prior to the commencement of the 2027 season. Manchester previously welcomed an NBA-related event when it hosted a pre-season game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers in October 2013.
Local Officials’ Enthusiasm
London’s Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, expressed enthusiasm over the announcement, stating that the arrival of the NBA at The O2 will further strengthen London’s reputation as a leading global sporting capital. Additionally, Councillor Bev Craig, leading Manchester’s city council, emphasized the city’s appeal for major events, showing enthusiasm for the NBA’s anticipated return.
Future NBA Games in Europe
The NBA plans to conduct two games annually in Europe from 2026 to 2028, with Berlin also set to host a game in 2026. Paris will be part of the mix in 2027, and both cities will hold matches in 2028. Details regarding teams playing in these later games will be revealed ahead of their respective seasons.
Upcoming NBA Games in Europe
In preparations for the 2025-26 season, which starts on October 21, fans should note the following future NBA games in Europe:
- January 15, 2026: Orlando Magic vs. Memphis Grizzlies at Uber Arena, Berlin
- January 18, 2026: Memphis Grizzlies vs. Orlando Magic at O2 Arena, London
- 2027: One match at Accor Arena, Paris and one at Co-op Live, Manchester
- 2028: One game at Uber Arena, Berlin and another at Accor Arena, Paris
British Players in the NBA
Adding to the excitement of basketball in the UK, there are currently four active British players in the NBA, including OG Anunoby from the New York Knicks, who had a notable 92 appearances during the 2024-25 season. Amari Williams, a Nottingham native, was recently drafted by the Boston Celtics, and other players such as Tosan Evbuomwan (Brooklyn Nets) and Jeremy Sochan (San Antonio Spurs) further showcase British talent in the league. Notably, Sochan plays internationally for Poland.
Future Plans for Basketball in Europe
The NBA’s commissioner, Adam Silver, has also been in discussions with Mayor Khan, focusing on both the league’s return to London and the growth of basketball throughout the city. Additionally, plans are being evaluated for establishing a professional men’s basketball league in Europe in collaboration with FIBA, which would include clubs in prominent cities like London, Manchester, Berlin, and Paris.
Popularity of Basketball in the UK
With basketball enjoying robust popularity in the UK—ranking as the second most played team sport and boasting around eight million fans—it seems the NBA’s presence in these cities is set to enhance the sport’s profile even further among the British audience, especially among younger generations.
