### Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets Set to Ignite NBA Preseason in Macao The NBA is making a significant return to Macao with the announcement that the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will face off in two preseason games on October 9 and 11, 2026. This event is part of the NBA China Games 2026 initiative, which aims to enhance the league's global presence and engage with fans in Asia. The games will take place at The Venetian Arena, marking a continuation of the NBA's efforts to foster relationships in the region following a previous successful event featuring the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns in 2025. The partnership with Sands China Ltd. underscores the NBA's commitment to expanding its footprint in China and connecting with local communities through basketball-related events and programs [https://vir.com.vn/dallas-mavericks-and-houston-rockets-to-play-preseason-games-in-macao-144207.html, https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/mavericks-rockets-confirmed-to-play-in-october.html]. ### Structure of the NBA China Games 2026 Announcement 1. **Event Details** - The Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will play two preseason games in Macao on October 9 and 11, 2026. - The games are part of the NBA China Games 2026 initiative, which aims to promote basketball in China and engage local fans [https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3338788/dallas-mavericks-face-houston-rockets-during-pre-season-nba-china-games-macau]. 2. **Historical Context** - This marks the NBA's return to Macao after the successful exhibition games held in 2025. - The event is part of a five-year deal to bring NBA teams to China, enhancing the league's global outreach [https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2026/01/06/basketball/nba/rockets-mavericks-macao-preseason]. 3. **Community Engagement** - Alongside the games, the NBA and Sands China Ltd. will host various fan events, including youth basketball clinics and health and wellness programs. - The initiative aims to foster community engagement and promote the sport among aspiring players in the region [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/rockets_mavs_to_play_preseason_games_in_macao/s1_17045_43289393]. ### Supporting Evidence for the NBA's Return to Macao - **Game Dates**: October 9 and 11, 2026 [https://www.nba.com/news/rockets-mavs-preseason-games-macao-2026]. - **Venue**: The Venetian Arena, Macao [https://ggrasia.com/nba-preseason-games-return-to-macau-with-dallas-mavericks-houston-rockets-on-oct-9-11-at-venetian-arena]. - **Historical Precedent**: The previous NBA China Games in 2025 featured the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns, indicating a successful model for future events [https://manilastandard.net/sports/314688429/rockets-mavs-to-play-pre-season-nba-games-in-macau.html]. - **Community Programs**: Planned activities include NBA House, NBA Fan Day, and a Community Impact Week focusing on health and wellness [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/mavericks_rockets_to_play_preseason_games_in_macao/s1_14822_43288393]. ### Conclusion: A Promising Future for NBA in Macao In summary, the upcoming NBA preseason games between the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets in Macao represent a pivotal moment for the league's expansion in Asia. 1. **Significant Engagement**: The NBA is committed to engaging with fans in China through high-profile games and community initiatives. 2. **Historical Context**: This event builds on the success of previous games, reinforcing the NBA's strategy to strengthen its presence in the region. 3. **Community Focus**: The accompanying events aim to promote basketball and wellness, ensuring a lasting impact on local communities. The NBA China Games 2026 is set to be a landmark event, showcasing the league's world-class talent while fostering a deeper connection with fans in Macao and beyond [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/nba-china-games-2026-rockets-222120822.html].