via Graphic Plus (with 1xBet) — Basketball has long ceased to be an American game, becoming a global cultural phenomenon. Further confirmation of this thesis came in the form of a high-profile announcement from the NBA: in October 2026, two preseason matches between the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets will be held in Macao.
Baton of success: from 2025 to 2026
The decision to hold games in Macao did not come out of nowhere. In the fall of 2025, the NBA already appeared here, organizing a preseason tour featuring the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets. Those clashes, played at the same Venetian Arena, were a real celebration: packed stands, millions of social media views, and unprecedented public interest in the world’s biggest stars.
The success of 2025 proved that Asia’s thirst for basketball is greater than ever. In October of the same year, the games between New York and Philadelphia in the UAE attracted no less attention. The NBA in Asia is getting world-class infrastructure, and sports and spectacle are merging into one. Now the league is ready to take the next step and bring famous teams from Texas to the region.
Gateway to Southeast Asia
The significance of the upcoming matches lies in their regional impact. Macao’s status as a major tourism and transportation hub makes the event easily accessible to fans from the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia.
For fans in these countries, where basketball is considered a national sport (especially in the Philippines), such clashes are a unique opportunity to see their idols live without having to make a long and tiring flight across the ocean. The expansion of preseason games’ geography shows that the NBA sees enormous growth potential here.
A new audience (reaching more than 600 million residents), solid marketing prospects, and the potential for basketball development in the region — all of these factors point to the beginning of a promising friendship. You can follow its progress on 1xBet online.
Texas showdown in Macao
The sporting side of the October 9 and 11 matches promises to be just as thrilling as the show itself. In 2025, both teams made key roster updates, making the future of each side look incredibly interesting.
The Dallas Mavericks build their team around the phenomenal talent of Cooper Flagg. The forward, who has been dubbed the new LeBron James, was selected as the first pick in the 2025 draft. He is expected to replace Luka Dončić in the fans’ hearts, and stars such as Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving will serve as his mentors.
The Houston Rockets are the team with the deepest historical roots in Asia (thanks to Yáo Míng’s legacy). Rockets look like contenders to dominate the West in 2026. The presence of Kevin Durant adds star experience to the team this season, and Alperen Şengün’s progress guarantees a bright future.
Macao as new basketball capital
In addition to the two announced games, there will be interactive events for fans, including NBA House and NBA Fan Day, as well as basketball master classes for young people.
As NBA Commissioner Adam Silver noted, basketball is the fastest-growing sport in the world, and Macao 2026 is a crucial step toward achieving this goal. Asia is not only waiting — it’s already prepared to become a full-fledged home for the world’s best basketball players.
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