The NBA and Sands China have struck a deal that will bring some preseason basketball action to Macau in 2025. An agreement was announced today, revealing that the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns are set to square off in two exhibition games at the Venetian Arena located in the Sands China-operated hotel and casino complex of the same name. The games are scheduled for October 10th and 12th, 2025.
Background of the Agreement
Sands China, a subsidiary of Las Vegas Sands, will be hosting these exciting matchups. The Sands China’s largest individual shareholder, Dr. Miriam Adelson, along with her son-in-law Patrick Dumont, the president and chief operating officer of the casino giant, who also owns the Dallas Mavericks and serves as the governor of the NBA franchise. This collaboration aims to showcase the NBA’s thrill to fans in Macau, an emerging sports hub worldwide.
Return to China After Controversy
This announcement signifies the NBA’s comeback to China after a five-year hiatus, partly triggered by a social media controversy involving then Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey. In 2019, Morey expressed support for Hong Kong protesters on Twitter, causing backlash from some NBA stars and Chinese officials. This led to tensions between the league and China, resulting in financial losses for the NBA.
Financial Implications and Potential Success
While the financial details of the NBA’s partnership with Macau remain undisclosed, Sands China is likely to benefit significantly from the collaboration due to the NBA’s immense popularity in China. The league plans to leverage this popularity by opening an NBA Flagship Store at The Londoner Macau, offering authentic NBA merchandise to fans from around the world.
The upcoming NBA exhibition games in Macau promise to be an exciting event for basketball enthusiasts, bridging the gap between the NBA and its Chinese fan base. With star-studded lineups and a prime location at the Venetian Arena, this initiative is poised to be a slam dunk success for all parties involved. So mark your calendars for October 2025 and get ready to witness some thrilling basketball action in the heart of Macau!
