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NBA Returns to Macao: Mavericks vs. Rockets Preseason Showdown

1/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The NBA will host two preseason games in Macao, China, featuring the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets on October 9 and 11, 2026.
The games follow a 2019 dispute sparked by Daryl Morey, the former Rockets general manager.
The Venetian Arena, owned by Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont, will host the events.
NBA officials say the move aims to re-engage Chinese fans, noting Yao Ming’s historical popularity.

History

Historical Context

Daryl Morey's 2019 tweet supporting Hong Kong protests strained NBA-China relations, leading to backlash from the Chinese government and a suspension of Rockets broadcasts. With an estimated 300 million fans in China, the NBA's 2026 preseason games in Macao, featuring the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets, aim to repair ties and leverage Yao Ming's legacy amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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Story summary

The NBA will host two preseason games in Macao, China, featuring the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets on October 9 and 11, 2026.
The games follow a 2019 dispute sparked by Daryl Morey, the former Rockets general manager.
The Venetian Arena, owned by Mavericks Governor Patrick Dumont, will host the events.
NBA officials say the move aims to re-engage Chinese fans, noting Yao Ming’s historical popularity.

1 / 2