Melbourne to host first ever NBA games in Australia

The Victorian Government today announced that Melbourne will host the first ever National Basketball Association (NBA) games to be played in Australia.

The two historic NBA games, to be held at Melbourne Park will see the New Orleans Pelicans 'square off' against Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix in pre-season NBA games on 3rd and 5th October – just days after the AFL Grand Final at the MCG.

These NBA games are anticipated to attract visitors from overseas and interstate - delivering a major boost for Victorian hotels, restaurants and bars with global media coverage spotlighting Victoria throughout the event.

Melbourne will be buzzing with activity that week as basketball fans fly in for these historic games. The city will host a range of activities so that fans and families of all ages can be part of the NBA experience, including an immersive Fan Zone, a Fan Night and community events across the city.

Visit Victoria Chief Executive Brendan McClements shared “the best of Victoria will be on display to the NBA’s global fanbase, showcasing our state to audiences around the world and encouraging thousands more visitors to see what makes us ‘Every bit different.’”

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today joined New Orleans Pelicans Executive VP of Basketball Operations David Griffin, NBL Executive Director and Owner Larry Kestelman and NBA Asia Head of Strategy Rajah Chaudhry to announce the games, which will mark the first time an NBA team will play on Australian soil.

Minister Dimopoulos enthused “The NBA has surged in popularity in Australia in recent years, and it’s going to be a great opportunity for basketball fans to see the stars of the game up close, providing a major boost for our tourism economy in the process.

“This is a historic moment – Australians love basketball and we’re bringing the very best league to Australian soil for the first time – giving fans and families a once-in-a-lifetime experience, right here in Melbourne.”

The Pelicans feature two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson, NBA All-Star Dejounte Murray and former NBA Most Improved Player CJ McCollum.

Australia boasts 14 active players currently on NBA rosters, and Melbourne is the only city in the modern NBA era to produce three number one overall draft picks – Ben Simmons, Kyrie Irving and Andrew Bogut.

Melbourne is now the only city in Australia to host NBA games, National Hockey League (NHL) matches and National Football League (NFL) games – three of the ‘big four’ American professional sports leagues.

Register now for pre-sale access to NBA games in Melbourne