The National Basketball Association (NBA) will return to Macau later this year for the NBA China Games 2026.
The events will feature the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets playing preseason games on October 9 and October 11 at The Venetian Arena in Macau.
The Venetian Arena (previously known as the Cotai Arena) is an indoor arena located on the premises of The Venetian Macao on the Cotai Strip in Macau, China. It opened in 2007 and has a seating capacity of 14,000.
NBA.com said in addition to the two games, the NBA and Sands China will host interactive fan events including NBA House and NBA Fan Day, youth basketball clinics, and a Community Impact Week focused on health, wellness and sustainability.
The NBA China Games 2026 will reach fans in more than 200 countries and territories on television, digital media and social media.
The games and surrounding events will be supported by a roster of marketing partners, including Amazon Web Services, Gatorade, Nike, and Tissot.
NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum said, “The games in Macau earlier this season showed how much passion and enthusiasm there is for the NBA among fans in China and across Asia.
“We look forward to welcoming the Mavericks and Rockets to Macau and to once again engaging fans, aspiring players and the local community through the games and surrounding events.”
Sands China Limited is the leading developer, owner and operator of multiuse integrated resorts and casinos in Macau. Macau is the largest gaming market in the world as measured by casino gaming revenue and is the only location in China offering legalized casino gaming.
Sands China Ltd. President and Chief Executive Officer Grant Chum said, “Riding on the outstanding success of The NBA China Games 2025 last October, I am excited about the programme we are planning for The NBA China Games 2026 showcasing the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets.
“We are confident and ready to welcome the teams, players, legends and fans from around the world to Macao for another amazing NBA week filled with unforgettable experiences of sports, entertainment and community.”
Dallas Mavericks Governor and President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Patrick Dumont added, “It is a tremendous honor for Sands to host the games at The Venetian Arena next fall.
“I could not be prouder of having the Mavericks come to Macau and have the team experience the incredible hospitality that Sands properties provide. The success of The NBA China Games 2025 demonstrated the strength of the NBA in creating fan engagement and exciting experiences around the globe.
“The NBA China Games 2026 will be another great opportunity to showcase the league, its world-class athletes and the excitement it brings.”
Houston Rockets Alternate Governor Patrick Fertitta said, “The Houston Rockets are an iconic brand with support around the globe, and we are honored to be selected alongside the Dallas Mavericks to bring a Texas-sized matchup to Macao as part of The NBA China Games 2026.
“Since drafting Hall of Famer Yao Ming first overall in 2002, we have received overwhelming love from the passionate basketball fans of China and built several cherished memories playing overseas.
“We are excited to have another opportunity to represent the NBA abroad and showcase our team in front of the fans in Macao next preseason.”
Continue to follow Coliseum for latest updates on venues business news. Coliseum is dedicated towards building the best global community of sports and entertainment venue executives and professionals creating better and more profitable venues.
Become a member of the only Global Sports Venue Alliance and connect with stadiums, arenas and experts from around the world. Apply for membership at coliseum-online.com/alliance and make use of the 365Coliseum Business.