The 2025 NBA preseason begins in
style as the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers meet in the NBA
Abu Dhabi Games 2025, marking an international tip-off that mirrors
the league’s global ambitions.
Set for October 2 and 4 at
Etihad Arena on Yas Island, the two Eastern Conference contenders
will renew one of their classic rivalries far from home. The
exhibition will be broadcast on NBA TV and showcases the growing
footprint of NBA basketball beyond U.S. borders.
Though officially a preseason
game, teams often use the Global Games platform to test rotations,
build brand exposure, and engage international fans. For the
Knicks, it’s the first time playing in the UAE, and for
Philadelphia, it’s a chance to debut new faces in front of a global
crowd.
The Knicks claimed a 99-84
victory in the opener in Abu Dhabi as Mitchell Robinson dominated
the glass (16 rebounds), and Miles McBride paced the team with 12
points.
Against a depleted Sixers roster
– missing Joel Embiid, Paul George, and rookie Jared McCain (out
with thumb surgery) – New York capitalized but not without a little
scare after Josh Hart suffered in what seems to be a back injury
and was ejected after throwing the ball following a
tumble.
With Embiid and George out and
McCain unavailable, the Sixers turned the spotlight on Tyrese Maxey
and rookie VJ Edgecombe. However, their shooting struggled, as
Philadelphia went just 3-for-35 from three.
The Abu Dhabi Games are one of
seven international NBA showcases this season, part of the league’s
effort to expand into new markets. Hosting marquee franchises
outdoors brings stars and spectacle to audiences not often served
by in-country league games. The trip includes off-court
activations, fan events, and local outreach.
Early games like these can give
clues to role players, lineups, and health – especially for
Philly’s injured core and New York’s new coach and
system.
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