The National Basketball Association has announced that the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will face off in two preseason games in Macao as part of the NBA China Games 2026.
Set to take place on Friday 9 October and Sunday 11 October, the games will be held at The Venetian Arena, transforming Macao into a global basketball hub just ahead of the new NBA season. The announcement was made jointly by the NBA and Sands China Ltd., continuing a partnership that has helped elevate the league’s presence across Asia.
More Than A Game
2024-25 NBA All-Defensive First Team member Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets and 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks (Credit: NBA)
Beyond the on-court action, the NBA China Games 2026 in Macao will deliver a full week of immersive fan experiences. Expect NBA House, NBA Fan Day presented by Alibaba Cloud, youth basketball clinics, and a Community Impact Week led by NBA Cares and Sands Cares, spotlighting initiatives around health, wellness and sustainability.
Broadcast across more than 200 countries and territories, the games will reach fans worldwide via television, digital platforms and social media. NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum highlighted the region’s enthusiasm following the success of last year’s games, noting the “passion and excitement” of fans across China and Asia.
Holding Court
2024-25 NBA All-Defensive First Team member Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets and 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg of the Dallas Mavericks (Credit: NBA)
Sands China CEO Grant Chum echoed the sentiment, promising another “unforgettable NBA week” that blends sport, entertainment and community engagement. For the teams, the return to Macao is equally meaningful.
The Mavericks’ Patrick Dumont praised the hospitality of Sands properties and the global reach of the NBA, while Houston Rockets Alternate Governor Patrick Fertitta referenced the franchise’s deep connection with Chinese fans—dating back to the drafting of Yao Ming in 2002—as a key reason the matchup feels especially resonant.
Details on ticket sales, fan access and community events will be announced at a later date. For now, one thing is certain: this October, Macao will once again take centre court on the global basketball stage.
(Main Image: JC Gellidon/Unsplash)
