ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

There will be much more on offer than just world-class basketball during the fourth edition of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 taking place this weekend.

While the two US basketball giants, New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers, clash in preseason games on October 2 and 4 at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, fans looking to have a ball can shoot over to the “NBA District”, being held on October 2-5 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, on Saadiyat Island.

NBA District, Manarat Al Saadiyat

Organisers the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced that NBA legends Oscar Robertson, Derrick Rose, Mark Jackson, John Starks, Rudy Gay and Michael Carter-Williams will headline the interactive public event.

Fans will be able to participate in basketball activities on a full-size NBA court, take photos with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, purchase limited-edition and customised NBA merchandise, attend panel sessions with select legends, and more.

Music artists Siilawy, Tul8te, DJ Jack, Stick No Bills and DJ D-Nice will headline a concert at NBA District on Friday, October 3, at 8pm.

A Sunday Coffee Social on October 5 at 10am will feature a performance by local DJ Abu Dhabi House Movement.

Tickets to NBA District, including separate tickets for the Friday night concert and the Sunday Coffee Social, are available at ticketmaster.ae.

Fans attending the Sunday Coffee Social will also gain access to NBA District when doors open to the public at 1pm. 

NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, Etihad Arena

The legends will also attend The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025, presented by ADQ.

The two preseason games will be played on October 2 and 4. The programme gets under way at 10pm and runs until 3.30am.

The Knicks bring a stacked lineup including:
- Two-time NBA All-Star Jalen Brunson
- Five-time NBA All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns
- Defensive powerhouse Mikal Bridges

The 76ers counter will feature:
- 2023 NBA MVP and seven-time All-Star Joel Embiid
- Nine-time NBA All-Star Paul George
- Rising star and 2024 All-Star Tyrese Maxey

Another treat for fans during the first game between the Knicks and the Sixers on Thursday, October 2, will be US rapper Fat Joe, who is scheduled to rock the court at the half-time performance.

Tickets for the games are on sale at etihadarena.ae and ticketmaster.ae.