NBA Set to Bring Exciting Matches to London and Manchester
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is making a highly anticipated return to the United Kingdom with scheduled games in London and Manchester. The events will mark the first NBA games held in the UK since 2019, revitalizing basketball enthusiasm among British fans.
London to Host Magic vs. Grizzlies in January 2026
The O2 Arena in London has been designated to host a regular-season game featuring the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, January 18, 2026. This matchup is notable as it will be the first game in the UK since the Washington Wizards faced the New York Knicks back in January 2019. London enjoyed hosting annual NBA matches from 2011 to 2019, making the return a momentous occasion for basketball enthusiasts.
Manchester’s Debut Game Scheduled for 2027
In an exciting development, Manchester will host its first-ever regular-season NBA game in 2027 at the Co-op Live venue. The specific teams competing in this game will be announced prior to the commencement of that season, heightening the anticipation for local basketball fans. Manchester previously hosted a pre-season matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers in October 2013 at the then-named Phones 4u Arena.
Official Statements from Local Leaders
The announcement has garnered enthusiastic responses from local officials. London’s Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, emphasized the capital’s stature in sports, stating, “London is now the undisputed sporting capital of the world, and the NBA coming to The O2 in January 2026 will further cement our global status.”
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, expressed excitement about the prospects, noting, “This is great news for the city-region and is an exciting opportunity for us to see some of the best basketball players in the world on our doorstep.” Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig echoed this sentiment, recognizing the city’s appeal for major events.
Future NBA Matches in Europe
The NBA plans to organize two games in various European cities each year from 2026 to 2028. Besides London, Berlin is set to host a match on January 15, 2026, with Paris lined up for a game in 2027. The league aims to provide thrilling basketball experiences in these iconic locations.
The Rise of British Players and the NBA’s Expansion
In tandem with the return of NBA games, this summer has seen a surge in British representation within the league. Nottingham-native Amari Williams was selected in the second round of the NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, joining stars like OG Anunoby of the New York Knicks and Tosan Evbuomwan of the Brooklyn Nets, further enhancing Britain’s presence in professional basketball.
Additionally, Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs and Belfast-born CJ Fulton, who appeared for the Minnesota Timberwolves during the summer league, contribute to a growing roster of British athletes actively participating in the NBA.
Table of Upcoming NBA Games in 2026 and 2027
| Date | Teams | Location |
|---|---|---|
| January 15, 2026 | Orlando Magic vs. Memphis Grizzlies | Uber Arena, Berlin |
| January 18, 2026 | Memphis Grizzlies vs. Orlando Magic | O2 Arena, London |
| 2027 TBD | To Be Announced | Co-op Live, Manchester |
| 2027 TBD | To Be Announced | Accor Arena, Paris |
The upcoming NBA season, starting on October 21, 2025, promises a thrilling experience for fans. With increasing interest in basketball across the UK and the establishment of a proposed professional men’s league in Europe, the future of basketball in the region looks more vibrant than ever.
