The NBA China Games 2026, presented by Taobao 88VIP, will bring the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets to The Venetian Arena in Macao this October, alongside fan events, youth clinics, and community programmes engaging fans across Asia and the world.
NBA China Returns With Star-Powered Preseason Action
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Sands China Ltd. (Sands) today confirmed the NBA China Games 2026 will feature two high-profile preseason games:
- Friday, Oct. 9: Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets
- Sunday, Oct. 11: Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets
Both games will take place at The Venetian Arena in Macao, marking the latest chapter in the NBA’s growing presence in China and Asia.
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“These games show how passionate fans in China and across Asia are about the NBA,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and COO Mark Tatum. “We look forward to welcoming the Mavericks and Rockets and engaging fans, aspiring players, and the local community through games and surrounding events.”
Beyond the Court: Fan Engagement and Community Impact
The NBA China Games 2026 go far beyond basketball action. Organisers have lined up interactive fan experiences, youth programmes, and community initiatives:
- NBA House & NBA Fan Day, presented by Alibaba Cloud
- Youth basketball clinics
- Community Impact Week, hosted by NBA Cares and Sands Cares, focusing on health, wellness, and sustainability
The games and events will be broadcast to more than 200 countries and territories via television, digital media, and social media platforms, supported by a roster of marketing partners including Alibaba Cloud, Ant International, Amazon Web Services, Gatorade, Mengniu Group, Nike, Tissot, and Presenting Partner Taobao 88VIP.
Sands China, the Official Integrated Resort Partner of NBA China, will serve as Official Promoter for the games, continuing its role from last year’s successful NBA China Games 2025.
Executive Insights: League and Team Leaders Speak
Grant Chum, President & CEO of Sands China Ltd., said:
“Building on the success of NBA China Games 2025, we are excited to welcome the Mavericks and Rockets, along with players, legends, and fans, to Macao for another week of sports, entertainment, and community experiences.”
Patrick Dumont, Dallas Mavericks Governor and COO of Las Vegas Sands Corp., added:
“Hosting the games at The Venetian Arena is an honor. The 2025 Games showed the NBA’s global fan engagement strength, and we look forward to delivering another memorable experience in Macao.”
Patrick Fertitta, Houston Rockets Alternate Governor, said:
“The Houston Rockets are thrilled to bring a Texas-sized matchup to Macao. Since drafting Yao Ming in 2002, we have cherished the support of basketball fans in China and are excited to showcase our team internationally again.”
Macao: A Hub for Global Fans
Macao provides an ideal setting for NBA fans to experience world-class basketball alongside entertainment and culture. The Venetian Arena offers a modern venue in the heart of the city, while nearby hotels, resorts, and attractions ensure that visiting fans can enjoy a fully immersive experience.
From bustling shopping streets to entertainment and hospitality offerings, Macao positions the NBA China Games as more than just preseason games—they are a celebration of sport, culture, and community.
Tickets and Offers
Details on ticket sales and participation in fan, youth, and community events will be announced at a later date. Fans are encouraged to stay updated via official NBA China and Sands China channels to access the latest information.
At a Glance
- Event: NBA China Games 2026
- Dates: Friday, Oct. 9 & Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026
- Teams: Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets
- Venue: The Venetian Arena, Macao
- Fan Experiences: NBA House, NBA Fan Day, youth clinics, Community Impact Week
- Broadcast Reach: 200+ countries and territories
- Key Partners: Taobao 88VIP, Alibaba Cloud, Ant International, AWS, Gatorade, Mengniu Group, Nike, Tissot
- Promoter: Sands China Ltd.
Also read Sands China Welcomes 1.1 Billion Visitors as The Venetian Macao Marks 18 Years
