The New Orleans Pelicans are heading Down Under, making history as the first NBA team to play in Australia. This October, the Pelicans will take on Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix in two preseason games at Melbourne Park, marking a major milestone for both the NBA and Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL).
A Landmark Moment for Basketball in Australia
The highly anticipated games are set for Friday, October 3, and Sunday, October 5, 2025, with the NBL serving as the official organizer of what’s being called the “Melbourne Series.” This groundbreaking event is more than just a couple of preseason matchups—it’s a celebration of basketball’s growing influence in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
“This is an exciting moment for our organization and a testament to the growing global impact of the NBA,” said Pelicans President Dennis Lauscha. “Bringing the Pelicans and NBA to Australia for the first time is a proud milestone, and we are thrilled to engage with fans in Melbourne.”
More Than Just Basketball
Beyond the games, the NBA, NBL, and Pelicans will participate in a series of community outreach initiatives and lifestyle events, including an NBA Cares program and a Fan Night on Saturday, October 4. These activities aim to strengthen the NBA’s connection with its international fanbase while fostering the development of young talent in the region.
Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson emphasized the significance of this trip, stating, “We are honored to be part of this historic occasion. This collaboration provides an exceptional opportunity to engage with our global fanbase and share the rich spirit and culture of New Orleans with basketball fans in the region.”
A Growing Connection Between the NBA and Australia
The relationship between the NBA and Australian basketball has been strengthening over the years. Since 2016, NBL teams have traveled to the U.S. for preseason games, and several Australian players have made their mark in the NBA, including Ben Simmons, Patty Mills, and Josh Giddey. The NBA has also hosted its Basketball Without Borders program in Australia, further expanding its grassroots development efforts.
“This announcement is the realization of a long-held dream,” said NBL Executive Director Larry Kestelman. “Hosting an NBA team in Australia has been 15 years in the making, and it shows how far the NBL has come in establishing itself as one of the premier leagues in the world.”
Star Power on Display
The Pelicans will bring a stacked roster to Melbourne, headlined by two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson, 2022 All-Star Dejounte Murray, and veteran sharpshooter CJ McCollum. Fans will get a rare opportunity to see some of the NBA’s best talents up close as the Pelicans test themselves against two of the NBL’s top teams.
Melbourne United has a rich history of developing NBA talent, with past players like Patty Mills and Matthew Dellavedova. Meanwhile, South East Melbourne Phoenix, an expansion team founded in 2019, has quickly established itself as a competitive force in the NBL.
How to Watch
Tickets for the games and surrounding events will go on sale soon, with fans encouraged to register for presale access. NBA games and programming will also be available to Australian fans through ESPN and NBA League Pass.
As the excitement builds for this historic series, one thing is certain: basketball in Australia is reaching new heights, and the Pelicans are helping to lead the charge.
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