In just a few weeks, the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets will play two preseason games at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Friday, October 4 (8 p.m. GST) and Sunday, October 6 (6 p.m. GST) as part of The NBA Abu Dhabi Games. Get tickets here.

Last season, the legendary Boston Celtics nailed a record-breaking 18th NBA title, becoming the winningest team in NBA history, by defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. Jayson Tatum and Kristaps Porziņģis had clearly been chugging Michael’s Secret Stuff (Space Jam reference, come on), as they both turned in thunderous, career defining performances. Having returned to the court for his first game back after an injury, Porziņģis silenced doubters and made fans out of those previously unfamiliar with his talents. The entire city of Boston was painted green, and the deafening shouts from the arena could be heard all the way to California.

Following his successful run back in June, Porziņģis had to undergo surgery and news had it that he would be out for up to 6 months. Earlier this week, the towering Latvian told ESPN, “The expectation is sometime in December. But I’m feeling really good and I’m working towards hopefully playing earlier than that.”

And as of just a few days ago, Jayson Tatum got some championship ink, as he is still riding high from last season’s championship win.

The previous season had the Nuggets winning the first NBA championship for the city of Denver, Colorado. As such, this match-up is aptly titled Clash of Champions.

Now returning to the Middle East, the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 will be the first time in history that the reigning NBA champion will play the previous champion in an NBA Global Game (a game held outside of North America).

For NBA fan appreciation day, taking place from Thursday October 3 to Sunday October 6, eager fans will be able to meet a cast of global superstars, including players from the USA Basketball Men’s National Team, who recently dominated at the 2024 Paris Olympics. These Gold Medalists include: Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray, Jaylen Brown, Nikol Jokic, and more.

See a highlight reel from the Dallas Mavericks playing the Minnesota Timberwolves in last year’s Abu Dhabi 2023 Games.

With The Etihad Arena long being home to the UFC and a personal favourite of Dana White, one can only wonder if the NBA will plant it’s own, permanent flag in the region as well. If last year’s Abu Dhabi games were anything to judge from, one would assume a resounding yes.

See you in Abu Dhabi.