Pelicans Australia Trip: NBA Preseason Games Debut
“`html
New Orleans Pelicans Make History with First NBA Games in Australia
Table of Contents
The New Orleans Pelicans embarked on a landmark trip to Australia in october 2025, playing two exhibition games against National Basketball League (NBL) teams – Melbourne United and the south East Melbourne Phoenix – marking the first time an NBA team has played games on Australian soil.
A Historic Journey Down Under
The New Orleans Pelicans traveled nearly 10,000 miles to Melbourne, Australia, to participate in a pair of exhibition games. the team faced Melbourne United on Friday, October 3rd, and the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Sunday, October 5th. Both opponents are prominent clubs in Australia’s premier basketball league, the NBL. The Pelicans arrived in Melbourne on Tuesday, October 1st, allowing time for acclimatization and preparation.
This trip represents a significant milestone for the NBA, being the first time a team has played games in Australia. Pelicans coach Willie Green emphasized the ancient aspect and the team-building benefits of such an international venture.
Australia’s NBA Connection
Australia has a rich history of contributing players to the NBA. Notable Australian NBA alumni include Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Andrew bogut, ben Simmons, Luc Longley (the first Australian to win an NBA championship), Matthew Dellavedova, and Josh Giddey. Interestingly, NBA star Kyrie Irving was also born in Australia.
The presence of these players has fostered a growing basketball fanbase in Australia, making the country a key market for the NBA’s international expansion.
| Australian NBA Players (Selected) | Teams Played For | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Luc Longley | Chicago bulls, Sydney Kings | 3x NBA Champion |
| Patty Mills | San Antonio Spurs, Portland trail Blazers, Atlanta Hawks | longest-tenured Australian NBA player |
| Andrew Bogut | Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks | NBA All-Star (2010) |
| Ben Simmons | Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets | NBA Rookie of the Year (2018) |
| Josh Giddey | Oklahoma City Thunder | Rising star, known for passing ability |
Beyond the Games: Building Global Connections
The Pelicans’ trip to Australia extends beyond the exhibition games. It provides an opportunity to engage with local fans, promote basketball at the grassroots level, and strengthen the NBA’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region.NBA players have previously competed in Australia, notably as part of the United States team during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, further solidifying the country