NBA executives have confirmed the league’s intention to return to London following a meeting with Mayor Sadiq Khan. This discussion has sparked optimism among basketball fans in the city about the possibility of the NBA’s comeback.
NBA Match London deputy commissioner Mark Tatum has given British basketball fans a glimmer of hope, confirming that the league is eager to make a comeback in London. The capital hasn’t hosted an NBA London Game since the 2018-19 season, with Paris stepping in as the new European host. However, recent discussions have reignited excitement for an NBA match in London.
During a meeting last month in New York City with Mayor Sadiq Khan, both parties expressed a strong desire to see the NBA return to British shores. “We had a great meeting here in New York,” Tatum shared with international media at a press conference before the 2024-25 NBA season tip-off. “What he reaffirmed to me is his commitment to investing in and growing the game of basketball in the UK. We’re seeing that excitement grow. We’re seeing the interest in the level of the game grow.”
Tatum emphasized the importance of bringing the NBA back to the UK, stating, “What he and I talked about was finding ways to bring the NBA back to the UK at some point in the not-too-distant future. I’m hopeful that we will be able to do that.” It has been a few years since regular season NBA games were played in the UK, but both Tatum and Khan are committed to making an NBA match in London a reality.
The NBA’s international allure is stronger than ever, with foreign-born stars dominating the league and snatching six of the last MVP awards. For the upcoming 2024-25 season, every team boasts at least one non-American talent, contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe that resonates with fans worldwide.
On Opening Night rosters, a record-equaling 125 players from 43 nations across six continents showcased global basketball talent. Among them are Brits Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs—who plays for Poland internationally—and the New York Knicks’ OG Anunoby, both poised for starting roles in the upcoming season.
On Opening Night rosters, a record-equaling 125 players from 43 nations across six continents showcased global basketball talent. Among them are Brits Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs—who plays for Poland internationally—and the New York Knicks’ OG Anunoby, both poised for starting roles in the upcoming season. As the anticipation builds for a potential NBA match in London, fans can look forward to the return of thrilling basketball action in the heart of the city. With strong commitments from league officials and local leaders, the dream of experiencing the NBA once again in London is inching closer to reality. On Opening Night rosters, a record-equaling 125 players from 43 nations across six continents showcased global basketball talent. Among them are Americans Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs—who plays for Poland internationally—and the New York Knicks’ OG Anunoby, both poised for starting roles in the upcoming season. As the anticipation builds for a potential NBA match in London, fans can look forward to the return of thrilling basketball action in the heart of the city. With strong commitments from league officials and local leaders, the dream of experiencing the NBA once again in London is inching closer to reality.
