The NBA and Sands China Ltd. have announced that the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will face off in two preseason games as part of the NBA China Games 2026. The matchups are set for October 9 and 11 at The Venetian Arena in Macao. The events will include fan engagements and community programs alongside the games.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Sands China Ltd. announced on Monday that the NBA China Games 2026 will feature preseason contests between the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets. The games are scheduled for Friday, October 9, and Sunday, October 11, 2026, at The Venetian Arena in Macao.
These exhibitions build on the success of previous NBA events in the region, highlighting the league's growing popularity in Asia. In addition to the on-court action, the NBA and Sands will organize interactive fan experiences, including NBA House and NBA Fan Day, youth basketball clinics, and a Community Impact Week. This week, hosted by NBA Cares and Sands Cares, will focus on social impact initiatives centered on health, wellness, and sustainability.
The games will be broadcast to fans in more than 200 countries and territories via television, digital media, and social media. Supporting partners include Amazon Web Services, Gatorade, Nike, and Tissot. Ticket sales, tipoff times, and details on fan, youth, and community events will be revealed later.
NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum emphasized the enthusiasm for the league in the region: “The games in Macao 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 Macao and to once again engaging fans, aspiring players and the local community through the games and surrounding events.”
Sands China Ltd. President and Chief Executive Officer Grant Chum added: “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.”
Dallas Mavericks Governor and President and Chief Operating Officer of Las Vegas Sands Patrick Dumont expressed pride in hosting: “It is a tremendous honor for Sands to host the games at The Venetian Arena next fall.”
Houston Rockets Alternate Governor Patrick Fertitta highlighted the team's global appeal: “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.”
The announcement mentions Cooper Flagg with the Mavericks and Kevin Durant with the Rockets, underscoring the star power expected in these international showdowns.
