The NBA has reached a significant five-year agreement with the Venetian Macao to host preseason games. This agreement marks an important step for the league as it seeks to expand its presence internationally, especially in emerging markets such as Macau.
The Venetian Macao is one of Sands China‘s most prestigious properties, located in the Macau special administrative region. This grand resort and casino is known for its luxurious facilities, including a vast gaming area and an arena with a capacity for 14,000 spectators. This arena will be the venue for preseason games between the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns, starting in October 2025.
Suspension of games and statements
Between 2004 and 2019, NBA games in China attracted many fans, especially after the signing of Yao Ming by the Houston Rockets in 2002. This event marked the beginning of a significant connection between the NBA and the Chinese public, which lasted until 2019.
That year saw a statement from then-Houston Rockets manager Daryl Morey in support of the protests in Hong Kong. For this reason, it resulted in the suspension of games, a situation worsened by the pandemic in 2020.
According to Mark Tatum, deputy commissioner of the NBA, “bringing preseason games to Macau will introduce fans to the excitement of the NBA in one of the world’s emerging sports hubs.”
This return is seen as a positive development, not only for fans, but also for Macau, which seeks to diversify its entertainment offerings, in accordance with government guidance.
Patrick Dumont, president of Sands and co-owner of the Dallas Mavericks, played a crucial role in negotiating this deal, which he described as a “win-win-win” benefiting the NBA, Macau and China.
However, Tatum stated that, for now, there are no concrete plans for the return of games in cities on the Chinese mainland; the focus will remain on Macau in the coming years.
Sands Corporation, through its Macau properties such as Londoner Macao, will promote the events, including an NBA concept store. Thus, reinforcing the league’s presence in the region.
About the NBA
The NBA, or National Basketball Association, is the main professional basketball league in the world, based in the United States. Founded in 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA), the league became the NBA in 1949 after merging with the National Basketball League (NBL).
Made up of 30 teams divided between the Eastern and Western conferences, the National Basketball Association is known for its global stars and exciting games. In addition to promoting sports, the NBA also stands out for its social initiatives and inclusion efforts. Finally, the league continues to expand its international impact, attracting fans from all parts of the world.
