The NBA returned to London for the first regular-season game since 2019, with the Memphis Grizzlies cruising to a 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic at the O2 Arena.
A sellout crowd of 18,424 witnessed the action, with basketball stars, football legends, and celebrities filling courtside seats. Among them were footballers Virgil van Dijk, Declan Rice, and Thierry Henry, Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli, and actress Rosamund Pike. NBA icon Tony Parker and former greats John Amaechi and Steve Nash also addressed the crowd, adding to the spectacle.
Ja Morant Leads Grizzlies on Return from Injury
The game marked the return of Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant from an ankle sprain that sidelined him for six matches. Morant inspired his team with 24 points, five rebounds, and 13 assists in 28 minutes, earning the loudest pre-game cheer from the crowd.
“I think all players should want to come and experience everything we and the Magic got to in Europe this week,” Morant said. “It’s definitely a place I’d love to revisit.”
Morant scored 20 points in the first half, including 15 in the second quarter, while bench player Jock Landale added 21 points, helping Memphis dominate early and maintain a comfortable lead throughout.
For Orlando, Wendell Carter Jr. contributed 18 points, and Paolo Banchero added 16 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists in a 36-minute outing, but the Magic were unable to mount a serious comeback.
NBA Glamour Arrives in London
The event showcased the growing global appeal of the NBA, with celebrity fans and high-profile performances adding to the atmosphere. American singer Vanessa Williams performed the US national anthem, unfazed by a heckler shouting, “leave Greenland alone,” a reference to recent geopolitical remarks about the territory.
The game created an electric atmosphere reminiscent of NBA arenas in the United States, with fans cheering stars and legends alike. Former footballer Marcelo received cheers when shown on the big screen, highlighting the crossover appeal of the event.
European Expansion: What’s Next for the NBA?
The London game was part of a two-match European stint, following a 118-111 Magic win in Berlin on Thursday. Looking ahead:
- Manchester will host its first regular-season NBA game in January 2027, joining Paris for a double-header.
- Paris and Berlin are scheduled to host matches in 2028.
- The NBA is exploring the launch of an independent European league as early as the 2027–28 season.
Discussions are ongoing with potential investors, sponsors, and stakeholders, though the EuroLeague has expressed resistance, warning of legal action if current EuroLeague clubs are approached. Notably, Alba Berlin has already withdrawn from EuroLeague this season, while Real Madrid remains a EuroLeague team but could join NBA Europe.
By the time Manchester’s Co-op Live hosts its first game, there should be a clearer picture of the league’s launch, structure, and participating clubs.
Key Takeaways
- Memphis Grizzlies 126–109 Orlando Magic
- Ja Morant: 24 points, 13 assists, 5 rebounds (return from injury)
- Jock Landale: 21 points off the bench
- Paolo Banchero: 16 points, 8 rebounds, 9 assists
- Wendell Carter Jr.: 18 points
- Attendance: 18,424 at the O2 Arena
The NBA’s return to London highlights the league’s commitment to global growth and gives European fans a taste of NBA-level excitement.
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