The NBL has long been regarded as one of Australia’s best-kept sporting secrets, but next month the league will take centre stage in a bid to become a global force.
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In a historic moment, Melbourne hosts the first-ever NBA games on Australian soil as the New Orleans Pelicans face Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix.
Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin said in February when the groundbreaking series was first announced that their “full roster will be in attendance”, meaning major star power will be touching down in Melbourne including Zion Williamson, a two-time NBA All-Star, Herbert Jones, a 2024 NBA All-Defensive First Team selection, and 2022 NBA Champion Jordan Poole.
Herb Jones, Jordan Poole and Zion Williamson. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
As for United and Phoenix, fans will be treated to big names like Chris Goulding and Nathan Sobey, as well as Next Stars Dash Daniels and Malique Lewis, who will have the chance to test themselves against the best in the world.
It’s not just about the stars on the court either.
In a major announcement, NBA legends and Hall of Famers Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett will headline Fan Night on October 4, an event filled with activities, entertainment, and a performance from Australian singer Tones and I.
While the NBA and NBL have collaborated before, with seven NBL teams having traveled to the U.S. to play 24 preseason games against NBA opposition, this marks the first time the NBA has come to Australia.
Williamson is feeling good ahead of the new season. Chris Graythen/Getty Images/AFPSource: AFP
Williamson will be the biggest attraction, with the superstar Pelicans forward looking in impressive shape ahead of the 2025-26 season and telling reporters at media day earlier in the week that he “really felt a shift” in his body.
“I haven’t felt like this since college, high school, just where I can walk into a gym and I feel good,” he added.