NBA Returns to the UK: Exciting Games Scheduled in London and Manchester
The NBA is set to make a return to the United Kingdom with games scheduled in London in 2026 and Manchester in 2027. The O2 Arena in London will host a regular-season game between the Orlando Magic and the Memphis Grizzlies in January 2026, marking the first NBA game in the UK since 2019. Manchester's Co-Op Arena will host a regular-season game in 2027, with the teams to be announced later. The NBA will also hold games in Berlin and Paris in 2026 and 2027, respectively, with both cities hosting a match in 2028.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig expressed excitement about the NBA games coming to their cities, highlighting the global appeal of these events. The return of NBA games to the UK signifies the growing popularity of basketball in the country. The upcoming season will kick off in October 2025, with London and Manchester eagerly awaiting the arrival of NBA teams.
The NBA's decision to bring games back to the UK reflects the league's commitment to expanding its global presence and engaging with fans worldwide. The presence of British players like OG Anunoby, Tosan Evbuomwan, and Jeremy Sochan in the NBA showcases the talent emerging from the UK. The potential creation of a professional men's league in Europe, in collaboration with FIBA, could further boost the popularity of basketball in the region.
With basketball being the second most popular team sport in the UK and a significant fan base, the NBA's return to London and Manchester is expected to draw large crowds and generate excitement among basketball enthusiasts. The upcoming games in 2026 and 2027 will provide fans with the opportunity to witness top-tier NBA action in their own cities, further solidifying the UK's position as a hub for international sports events.