The NBA is scheduled to play official games in Paris and Manchester in 2027, marking the 16th and 20th NBA games in France and England, respectively. The San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Pelicans will face off in Paris on January 14 and in Manchester on January 17. This will be the first official NBA game in Manchester since 1993, following a preseason game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Philadelphia 76ers in 2013.

Wembanyama Returns Home

This return to Paris is a significant moment for Victor Wembanyama, the French superstar of the San Antonio Spurs. "Playing games in Paris and Manchester reflects the strong impact of basketball and the NBA in France, the UK, and throughout Europe," said George Aivazoglou, General Director of the NBA for Europe and the Middle East. "We are excited to collaborate with the Pelicans, Spurs, and our partners to offer unique experiences to fans, players, and local communities."

The Spurs will play their 10th and 11th games in Europe, their sixth in France, and their first in England. "It's a tremendous honor to return to France and play our first game in England, given the wonderful reception we've experienced from fans across Europe," said R.C. Buford, the Executive Chairman of the Spurs.

Potential Croatian Star Appearance

The Pelicans will play their third and fourth games in Europe, their first in France and England. Croatian representative Karlo Matković could make an appearance if the team activates his option for the next season under his current three-year contract. "Participating in these games in Paris and Manchester is an incredible opportunity for our organization to proudly represent both the Pelicans franchise and the city of New Orleans on the international stage," said Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Pelicans.

"These games provide a unique platform to showcase our team, our culture, and our community to a global audience, while also building significant relationships with fans, partners, and communities abroad."