Pelicans to make NBA history with first-ever games in Australia

Basketball fans in Australia are in for a historic treat this October, as the New Orleans Pelicans are set to become the first NBA team to play games on Australian soil.

The landmark announcement was made jointly by the NBA and NBL, confirming that the Pelicans will take on Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix in a pair of preseason matchups at Melbourne Park.

The games, scheduled for October 3 against United and October 5 against the Phoenix, mark a milestone moment for Australian basketball.

The NBA has long enjoyed a growing relationship with the NBL, but this will be the first time an NBA franchise officially competes in the country.

Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson emphasized the importance of the event, highlighting the opportunity to connect with international fans and promote the sport globally.

“We are honored to be part of this historic occasion for basketball in Australia,” Benson said.

“This collaboration with the NBL and NBA allows us to share the spirit and culture of New Orleans with basketball fans in the region. We look forward to competing and inspiring the next generation of athletes.”

The Pelicans, led by two-time All-Star Zion Williamson, will bring a star-studded lineup to Melbourne, including veteran guard CJ McCollum and emerging forward Trey Murphy III.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm by NBL Executive Director Larry Kestelman, who described it as the realization of a “15-year dream” for Australian basketball.

“Hosting an NBA team in Australia has been a long-held vision for the NBL, and seeing it come to fruition is a testament to the growth of the sport in this country,” he said.

The visit is expected to have a significant impact beyond the two games, with the NBA, Pelicans, and NBL planning community engagement activities, grassroots programs, and fan events to celebrate the occasion.

The NBL has increasingly positioned itself as a key partner to the NBA, with Australian teams regularly playing preseason games in the U.S. over the past decade.

Now, with an NBA team making the trip in the opposite direction, Australian fans will get to witness elite basketball action live on home soil.

The Victorian government, in partnership with the NBL, will serve as the official promoter of the games, ensuring a world-class experience for fans.

With Melbourne United currently battling for an NBL Championship and the Phoenix coming off a strong playoff run, both teams will be eager to make their mark against NBA competition.

As the countdown to October begins, basketball fever is set to grip Melbourne, with fans eagerly anticipating a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Pelicans take flight Down Under.

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