The National Basketball Association (NBA) will not hold its preseason games in the Middle East this year due to the ongoing conflict in the region, according to ESPN. This decision halts a four-year streak of the league holding games in Abu Dhabi.
The NBA had been in discussions with teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, and Washington Wizards about potential games in Saudi Arabia. However, the escalating international situation has led to the cancellation of these Middle East plans.
Instead, the league is scheduled to host two preseason games in China this October. This marks the NBA's first visit to China for preseason games since 2019.
Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi has hosted NBA preseason games since 2022, with the league and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi having extended their partnership in January. This agreement includes preseason NBA Global Games, marketing efforts, and the establishment of an NBA Global Academy in the city.
While Middle East preseason games are on hold, the NBA plans to hold regular-season games in France, England, Mexico, and Germany during the upcoming season. The league has not yet announced any plans for regular-season games in the Middle East. The New York Knicks played a preseason game in Abu Dhabi last October as part of their championship run.