NBA Era in Australia with an Unforgettable Showcase
Basketball fans in Australia witnessed history unfold as the New Orleans Pelicans marked the NBA Era in Australia, with a 107-97 win over Melbourne United in Game 1 of the NBAxNBL: Melbourne Series. Nearly 15,000 fans packed Rod Laver Arena, creating a charged atmosphere for this landmark encounter. At the same time, NBA great Kevin Garnett watched courtside as the league’s global expansion took a significant leap forward.
This wasn’t just another preseason exhibition it was a defining moment, blending the intensity of NBA basketball with the passionate energy of the NBL, signaling the dawn of a deeper connection between the two leagues.
Pelicans Overcome Late Push to Secure Historic Win
The Pelicans asserted control early, building a 16-point advantage and appearing ready to cruise to victory. But Melbourne United, fueled by home support, refused to back down. A fierce fourth-quarter rally narrowed the gap, forcing New Orleans to dig deep before eventually sealing the win.
Zion Williamson showcased his trademark explosiveness, delivering 15 points and five assists, while Trey Murphy III paced the team with 18 points. Karlo Matkovic provided vital all-around contributions with six points, four rebounds, a block, a steal, and an assist, highlighting the depth of the Pelicans’ roster.
For Melbourne, Milton Doyle was the star of the night. His relentless scoring and composure under pressure produced a game-high 25 points, proving that the NBL’s best could go toe-to-toe with NBA talent.
Knicks and 76ers Launch Preseason with International Flair
The historic night in Melbourne wasn’t the only highlight on the NBA calendar. In Etihad Arena, the New York Knicks opened the 2025 NBA Preseason with a 99-84 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, setting the tone for a globally focused exhibition schedule.
French rookie Pacome Dadiet made a confident debut, contributing four points and two rebounds as a starter. Fellow Europeans Ariel Hukporti and Alex Len added six and five points, respectively, strengthening the Knicks’ depth. On the other side, Adem Bona scored four points for the 76ers, while Guerschon Yabusele and Mohamed Diawara saw minutes but did not score.
Looking Ahead: More International Basketball on the Horizon
The preseason excitement is far from over. The Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns are set to clash in Palm Desert on Friday, adding another marquee matchup to the schedule. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will remain in Melbourne to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix in their next NBAxNBL test. Across the globe, the Knicks and 76ers are gearing up for a rematch in Abu Dhabi, as the NBA’s global showcase continues to unfold.
Conclusion
The Pelicans’ triumph over Melbourne United was more than a win it was a powerful statement about the NBA’s commitment to growing the game beyond its borders. The NBAxNBL Melbourne Series has proven that basketball’s global appeal is stronger than ever, blending world-class talent, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments.
With sold-out arenas, superstar performances, and rising international interest, this series marks just the beginning of a new era — one where the NBA’s presence in Australia and beyond will only continue to grow.
NBA Era in Australia with an Unforgettable Showcase
Basketball fans in Australia witnessed history unfold as the New Orleans Pelicans marked the NBA Era in Australia, with a 107-97 win over Melbourne United in Game 1 of the NBAxNBL: Melbourne Series. Nearly 15,000 fans packed Rod Laver Arena, creating a charged atmosphere for this landmark encounter. At the same time, NBA great Kevin Garnett watched courtside as the league’s global expansion took a significant leap forward.
This wasn’t just another preseason exhibition it was a defining moment, blending the intensity of NBA basketball with the passionate energy of the NBL, signaling the dawn of a deeper connection between the two leagues.
Pelicans Overcome Late Push to Secure Historic Win
The Pelicans asserted control early, building a 16-point advantage and appearing ready to cruise to victory. But Melbourne United, fueled by home support, refused to back down. A fierce fourth-quarter rally narrowed the gap, forcing New Orleans to dig deep before eventually sealing the win.
Zion Williamson showcased his trademark explosiveness, delivering 15 points and five assists, while Trey Murphy III paced the team with 18 points. Karlo Matkovic provided vital all-around contributions with six points, four rebounds, a block, a steal, and an assist, highlighting the depth of the Pelicans’ roster.
For Melbourne, Milton Doyle was the star of the night. His relentless scoring and composure under pressure produced a game-high 25 points, proving that the NBL’s best could go toe-to-toe with NBA talent.
Knicks and 76ers Launch Preseason with International Flair
The historic night in Melbourne wasn’t the only highlight on the NBA calendar. In Etihad Arena, the New York Knicks opened the 2025 NBA Preseason with a 99-84 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, setting the tone for a globally focused exhibition schedule.
French rookie Pacome Dadiet made a confident debut, contributing four points and two rebounds as a starter. Fellow Europeans Ariel Hukporti and Alex Len added six and five points, respectively, strengthening the Knicks’ depth. On the other side, Adem Bona scored four points for the 76ers, while Guerschon Yabusele and Mohamed Diawara saw minutes but did not score.
Looking Ahead: More International Basketball on the Horizon
The preseason excitement is far from over. The Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns are set to clash in Palm Desert on Friday, adding another marquee matchup to the schedule. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will remain in Melbourne to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix in their next NBAxNBL test. Across the globe, the Knicks and 76ers are gearing up for a rematch in Abu Dhabi, as the NBA’s global showcase continues to unfold.
Conclusion
The Pelicans’ triumph over Melbourne United was more than a win it was a powerful statement about the NBA’s commitment to growing the game beyond its borders. The NBAxNBL Melbourne Series has proven that basketball’s global appeal is stronger than ever, blending world-class talent, passionate fans, and unforgettable moments.
With sold-out arenas, superstar performances, and rising international interest, this series marks just the beginning of a new era — one where the NBA’s presence in Australia and beyond will only continue to grow.
