Abu Dhabi narrows NBA courtship with Team USA’s two exhibition games

Abu Dhabi’s courtship of NBA and US Basketball continues to growThe latest agreement reached by the emirate, which has invested in internationalization and a better image through world sports for more than a decade, will see Team USA, the US national team, play two exhibition matches in the Middle East next August. can do.

USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley announced the following agreement: Three-day event will host a triangular tournament between North American teams, Germany and GreeceThe friendly matches are scheduled for August 18, 19 and 20 and serve as a last-minute preparation for all teams involved one week before the FIBA ​​World Cup kicks off in Japan, Indonesia and the Philippines. increase.

American friendly games in Arab countries where other teams have NBA stars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, These are just another step in Abu Dhabi’s recent significant investments related to American basketball.another team focused on Europe and the Euroleague was also courted amid plans to build a team for the continental competition in the emirate.

The relationship with the NBA demonstrates the Emirates’ willingness to take ownership of the franchise and enter the American League.Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks have already played several friendly games last October and are planning more friendly games next fall with the Dallas Mavericks as star candidates. Last year, Competition also opened its first official store in the United Arab Emirates. This is a symbolic but important gesture.

Abu Dhabi fund Mubadala has expressed interest in investing in various NBA franchises.decided at its board meeting in December to allow foreign sovereign funds to enter team ownership in a minority stake of up to 20%.

In addition to playing in the United Arab Emirates, Team USA will also be stopping in Slovenia and Malaga during their preparatory tour for the 2023 FIBA ​​World Cup.