Everything you need to know about the upcoming NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2023

Dubai: As a result of last year’s history-creating edition, the NBA games return to the Arabian Gulf for the second-ever time this October with the Minnesota Timberwolves facing off against the Dallas Mavericks in two preseason games in the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October the 5th and 7th.

About the NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is America’s top-flight basketball division comprised of 30 teams split evenly into the Eastern and Western conferences due to their geographical location. The season runs from late October to late June with teams playing up to 82 intense, action-packed matches to decide the NBA Champions, currently the Denver Nuggets.

The Rules

Each individual game consists of four quarters that each run for 12 minutes on the clock. Unlike football, the clock will freeze whenever the ball is either out of play, a foul is called, free-shots are being thrown or other time-outs – ensuring the entire 48-minute game is played on a court. The NBA employs a 24-second shot-clock rule on teams, meaning whenever the ball is in play, teams have just 24 seconds to shoot at the hoop, making for a fast-paced and thrilling viewing experience.

To earn points, teams must successfully throw or dunk the basketball through the opposition’s net:

Two-point field goal

When players land the ball inside the hoop (basket) from inside the three-point line, it’s worth two points. This usually consists of short/mid-range efforts.

Three-point goal

When a player scores a basket from beyond the three-point line, it earns them three points on their total. These are typically long-range shots, known as three-pointers.

Free throw

The basketball equivalent of a penalty the attacking team is awarded a free throw at the hoop when fouled by the opposition team whilst taking a shot. A free throw awards one point.

The game is won by the team that has scored the most points by the end of the final quarter, with 114 points being the average number of points scored per team last season.

The Match-day Experience  

Held at the Etihad Arena, on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the games will accommodate up to 18,000 fans with the NBA’s different options all guaranteeing an unforgettable experience in Abu Dhabi.

Fans can choose between the ‘Starter’, ‘Playmaker’, and ‘Hall of Fame’ packages that include experiences such as an on-court photo, exclusive dinner with NBA legends, and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Etihad Arena.

Whilst at the event, spectators can look forward to games such as skills challenges, three-point offs and a dunk contest that will happen between the players of each team in addition to the pre-season match between the Timberwolves and Mavericks.

It’s not just on-court where the action is happening either. Following its success last year, the NBA District returns to Manarat Al Saadiyat from October 5-8 allowing visitors to meet NBA icons such as Gary Payton and Tim Hardaway Sr. Additionally, inside the District fans will be able to play on a full-sized court, have the exclusive opportunity to purchase NBA merchandise and take a photo with the Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Tickets are on sale now and selling out fast, click here to purchase yours from the NBA’s official website.

This article is contributed by Thomas Cayless. Thomas is an upper-class Honours Multi-Media Sports Journalism Graduate from the University College of Football and Business.