Grizzlies and Magic set to take the court in Berlin and London for regular-season games in 2026, marking the beginning of a three-year series of NBA matches in Europe.
As the NBA continues its mission to globalize professional basketball, the upcoming regular-season games in Europe mark a pivotal moment. The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic are slated to face off in Berlin on January 15 and then in London on January 18, 2026. These fixtures kickstart a three-year plan that promises to embed NBA’s high-octane basketball deep into the European sports scene. This isn't just a novelty—it's a clear demonstration of the league's determination to grow its audience beyond American shores.
NBA’s Bold Move: Regular-Season Games Bring The Grizzlies and Magic to Berlin and London
The NBA has chosen iconic venues like the Uber Arena in Berlin and The O2 in London to host these games, signaling the weight of this initiative. This will be the first regular-season NBA games in Berlin and the 10th in London, further cementing the league's foothold in major European cities. Fans can expect more than just basketball—they’ll witness a full-scale celebration of sport with community outreach, youth clinics, and interactive fan engagement.
The 3-Year Europe Series: Extending The NBA Footprint Into 2028
These initial games are just the beginning. Following the 2026 Berlin and London matchups, the NBA has planned games in Manchester and Paris in 2027 and will return to Berlin and Paris in 2028. By staging six regular-season games in Europe over three years, the league is strategically positioning itself to engage European basketball fans regularly at a high competitive level.
- 2026: Berlin (Uber Arena) & London (The O2)
- 2027: Manchester (Co-op Live) & Paris (Accor Arena)
- 2028: Berlin & Paris
These venues, famous for hosting major events, will serve as prime platforms to showcase NBA talent and build local basketball communities.
Grizzlies and Magic: Key Players to Watch on European Courts
The Memphis Grizzlies are bringing a strong roster—including two-time All-Star Ja Morant and Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. Their European appearances will include player talents like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and promising rookies such as Zach Edey and Cedric Coward. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic, returning to Europe for the fourth and fifth times, will feature 2024 NBA All-Star Paolo Banchero, German talents Franz and Moritz Wagner, and defensive stalwart Jalen Suggs.
- Grizzlies: Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Zach Edey, Cedric Coward
- Magic: Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane
The presence of the Wagner brothers in Berlin adds a compelling hometown storyline; their rise mirrors the increasing basketball passion across Europe, amplifying the cultural impact of these events.
Beyond The Game: NBA’s Community Focus In Europe
It’s not just about the scores; the NBA, alongside the Grizzlies and Magic, plans robust community outreach through NBA Cares, youth basketball clinics like Jr. NBA and Jr. WNBA, and development programs for coaches and referees. These initiatives aim to nurture local talent and grow the sport organically, fostering a basketball culture that resonates with European fans.
- NBA Cares community initiatives
- Youth basketball clinics (Jr. NBA & Jr. WNBA, Her Time to Play)
- Coach and referee development programs
- Interactive fan activities and events
This integrated approach positions the NBA as a leader not only in sports entertainment but also in sports development throughout Europe.
Broadcasting, Access, and Fan Engagement for NBA Europe Games
Every game will be broadcast live across Europe and reach audiences spanning over 200 countries. Fans can anticipate a seamless experience through digital platforms and TV networks, amplifying the NBA’s brand worldwide. Ticketing details will be released closer to the event, but fans eager to lock in their seats can register early for ticket draws at NBA.com/EuropeGames.
- Live broadcasts across Europe and globally
- Special VIP packages through nbaexperiences.com
- Social media activity on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter
- Merchandise available at NBA Stores and online at NBAStore.eu
This multi-faceted accessibility ensures fans can engage with the NBA whether in the arena, at home, or online.
What This Means For Basketball’s Growth Across Europe
NBA’s European games represent a strategic push that goes beyond marketing. It’s about embedding the sport deeply within the cultural and community frameworks of European cities. This approach mirrors historic efforts to globalize basketball and builds upon the progress documented in NBA summer narratives, free agency movements, and the offseason power rankings that shape the league’s future.
By delivering elite basketball directly to European fans and investing in local development, the NBA ensures that the excitement is not fleeting. This strategic integration may even inspire future international stars to emerge from these regions and make their marks on the NBA stage.
Check out the dominance of Ja Morant and the impact players of the Memphis Grizzlies as they prepare for their European debut.
Take a closer look at the rising stars of the Orlando Magic, including Paolo Banchero and the Wagner brothers, ready to electrify Berlin and London crowds.
