36ers to play NBA teams in pre-season

Adelaide 36ers today proudly announce the club will play two NBLxNBA pre-season games in the lead-up to the NBL23 season.

The club will play Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Centre on Sunday, October 2, before facing Oklahoma City Thunder at the Paycom Centre on Thursday, October 6.

Adelaide 36ers owner and chairman Grant Kelley said the club is honoured to be involved in the NBL x NBA pre-season schedule for the third time, after previously playing Utah Jazz in 2018 and 2019.

“We always want to test ourselves against the best, and for basketball that is the NBA,” Kelley said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the club both on and off the court and one that will open doors for our organisation.

“Plus we get to see Josh (Giddey) again which is great after he had such an amazing season with us in 2021.”

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said the league is delighted to be see the 36ers travel to America for the pre-season schedule.

“After two years without NBL x NBA games, we are thrilled to see them return,” Loeliger said. “The matches are always a highlight of our calendar, and we look forward to them once again becoming an annual occurrence.”

“It also emphasises the growing and strengthening connection between the NBL and NBA.

“We thank the NBA, Phoenix Suns, Oklahoma City Thunder and Adelaide 36ers for their support and cooperation in organising these games and wish Adelaide all the best on the tour.”

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NBA Asia Vice President of Global Partnerships Francesco Suarez is excited to welcome NBL teams back to the NBA pre-season.

“As the popularity of basketball and the NBA continue to grow in Australia, having NBL teams participate in the preseason is an important part of our year-round efforts to connect our passionate fans in Australia with their favourite teams and players,” Suarez said.