The National Basketball Association (NBA) is once again extending its formidable reach across the Atlantic, not for a casual exhibition, but for the fierce competition of its regular season. In a significant move highlighting its global strategy, the league has officially announced that the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic will face off in crucial games in Berlin, Germany, and London, England, in January 2026. This isn`t just a friendly visit; it`s a statement of intent.
The Main Event: Berlin and London in 2026
Basketball aficionados across Europe can mark their calendars for a double dose of elite NBA action. The Orlando Magic, featuring rising star Paolo Banchero, and the Memphis Grizzlies, led by dynamic talents like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., are set to bring their high-octane play to two iconic European venues.
- January 15, 2026: The Uber Arena in Berlin will host the inaugural German regular season NBA game. For a country with a burgeoning basketball fanbase and a rich history of producing NBA talent, this represents a pivotal moment.
- January 18, 2026: The action then shifts to London`s renowned The O2 arena, continuing a tradition of competitive NBA matchups in the UK capital.
These matchups promise not only top-tier basketball but also a unique opportunity for European fans to witness the athleticism and strategic prowess that define the NBA, live and in person.
Beyond 2026: The European Roadmap Continues
This isn`t merely a one-off spectacle; it`s a strategic long-term play. The NBA has communicated an ambitious multi-year commitment to Europe, promising regular season games well into the future:
- 2027: The league plans to bring games to Manchester, England (at the Co-op Live arena), and Paris, France (at the Accor Arena).
- 2028: Berlin and Paris are slated to once again host NBA action, solidifying their status as key European basketball hubs.
Specific teams and exact dates for the 2027 and 2028 fixtures will be announced closer to their respective seasons, keeping fans in eager anticipation. The league, it seems, has a multi-year blueprint for European engagement, systematically expanding its footprint beyond exhibition tours.
A Historical Slam Dunk: From Exhibitions to Regular Season Staples
While NBA teams have visited Europe for decades, these upcoming games mark a significant evolution. Berlin`s 2026 game will be Germany`s 14th NBA contest since 1984, but remarkably, its first-ever regular season game. London, with its 19th NBA game since 1993, will host its 10th official regular season contest. Manchester, last visited in 2013, will also see its first regular season game in 2027. Meanwhile, Paris continues its strong relationship with the NBA, marking its 16th overall game and 6th regular season fixture in 2027.
No longer just dipping a toe in the water, the NBA is now diving in headfirst, integrating European cities into the fabric of its competitive calendar. This transition from occasional showcases to pivotal league games underscores a deeper commitment to, and belief in, the European market.
More Than Just a Game: Community and Global Reach
Beyond the high-flying dunks and buzzer-beaters, the NBA`s visit will encompass a broader mission. In conjunction with the Grizzlies and Magic, the league plans a range of community engagement initiatives, including:
- Youth basketball clinics.
- Coaching and referee development programs.
- Interactive fan events designed to immerse local communities in the NBA experience.
These parallel activities demonstrate the league`s commitment to fostering basketball at the grassroots level, ensuring its global expansion is not just about entertainment but also about development. Naturally, all games will be broadcast live across Europe and internationally, reaching fans in over 200 countries and territories via television, digital platforms, and social media, ensuring no one misses out on the spectacle.
The Future of Basketball is Global
The expansion of regular season games across major European cities underscores the NBA`s undeniable commitment to its international fanbase. For years, European players have been instrumental in shaping the league`s competitive landscape. Now, the league is returning the favor, bringing the unparalleled excitement of its regular season to the continent that has contributed so much to its global appeal. As the NBA continues to champion basketball worldwide, these European ventures are not just games; they are cultural touchstones, solidifying basketball`s place as a truly global sport.
