The New Orleans Pelicans have made NBA history by becoming the first team to participate in preseason games in Australia. This landmark journey nearly spans 10,000 miles, culminating in two matchups against local clubs: Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix. The games are set to take place on Friday and Sunday, respectively, as part of the National Basketball League (NBL).
Significance of the Pelicans’ Australian Adventure
This trip marks a historic moment for the NBA. While individual players have visited Australia for various international events, this is the first instance of a franchise traveling there collectively. Pelicans coach Willie Green emphasized the unique bonding opportunity this presents for the team.
- First NBA team to travel to Australia
- Competing against Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix
- Opportunity for team bonding and fan engagement
Team Activities and Engagements
Upon arriving in Melbourne on Tuesday, the Pelicans have organized a series of activities to enhance their experience. These include:
- An open practice session
- A fan night event
- A Junior NBA clinic for 50 local children
Additionally, Hall of Famers Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett are expected to make appearances at the games, adding to the excitement surrounding the event.
Player Insights on the Journey
For many players, this trip holds personal significance. Forward Trey Murphy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’ve never been to Australia before, so this is a personal bucket list travel experience.” This marks Murphy’s return to the court after a challenging prior season due to injury.
Murphy added, “Getting to make this trip with some of my best friends while doing something I love is incredibly exciting.” The team aims to strengthen interpersonal connections and improve their on-court cohesion throughout this journey.
Global Growth of the NBA
This trip is part of a broader trend as the NBA expands its footprint internationally. Alongside the Pelicans’ games in Australia, several other franchises are competing in various international locales during the preseason, including:
- Philadelphia and New York in Abu Dhabi
- Orlando and Miami in San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Denver and Toronto in Vancouver
- Phoenix and Brooklyn in Macao, China
In addition to international games, several U.S. cities without NBA teams will host preseason matches, further showcasing the league’s commitment to global outreach.
Future Implications for the Pelicans
Discussions surrounding this Australian expedition began during the tenure of Dyson Daniels, an Australian player who previously belonged to the Pelicans. Although Daniels has since been traded, the value of this trip remains significant. Coach Willie Green highlighted the importance of utilizing their global platform to positively impact communities.
In conclusion, the Pelicans’ journey to Australia not only establishes a new precedent in NBA history but also fosters team unity and community engagement, reaffirming the league’s growing international presence.
