Philadelphia 76ers Announce Preseason Game In Abu Dhabi For 2025-26 Season
The Sixers will take their talents to the Middle East as part of NBA's global expansion efforts
Image: Instagram
The Philadelphia 76ers have officially announced they will be heading to Abu Dhabi for a special preseason matchup in October 2025. The team shared the news through their official Instagram account (@sixers), signaling their participation in the NBA’s continued global expansion efforts.
NBA’s Growing Middle Eastern Presence
This marks another significant step in the NBA’s efforts to grow basketball’s popularity in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi has been hosting NBA preseason games since 2022, with previous matchups featuring teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, and Dallas Mavericks.
The games are part of the league’s multi-year partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), which aims to promote basketball in the United Arab Emirates and throughout the region.
the Philadelphia 76ers have officially announced that they will play two preseason games against the New York Knicks in Abu Dhabi as part of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025. These games are scheduled for October 2 and October 4, 2025, at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island. This marks the fourth consecutive year the NBA has hosted preseason games in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the league’s commitment to expanding its global presence
The Philadelphia 76ers, one of the NBA’s oldest franchises, bring substantial history and brand recognition to this international showcase. Founded in 1946 and originally known as the Syracuse Nationals, the team relocated to Philadelphia in 1963 and has won three NBA championships throughout its storied history.
The franchise has featured legendary players including Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving, Charles Barkley, Allen Iverson, and more recently, Joel Embiid. This rich basketball tradition makes them an attractive ambassador for the league’s international development efforts.
What’s Next For The 76ers
For 76ers fans, the Abu Dhabi announcement offers an exciting international element to look forward to as part of the 2025-26 campaign. The preseason matchup will provide an early glimpse at the team’s composition and playing style ahead of the regular season.
More details surrounding the Abu Dhabi games are expected to be announced in the coming months, as the NBA finalizes its preseason schedule for the 2025-26 season.
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