Could the Grizzlies' Victory Over the Magic Signal a New Era for the NBA in London?

The Memphis Grizzlies secured a convincing 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic in London, marking the NBA's return to the city for the first time since 2019. Star player Ja Morant made a notable comeback from injury, contributing 24 points, five rebounds, and 13 assists during the match. This event not only showcased top-tier basketball but also attracted a celebrity audience, highlighting the NBA's appeal beyond the sport itself.

Last updated: 15 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Grizzlies' win in London reflects their resilience and potential for the current NBA season, particularly with Morant's return. His performance was pivotal in establishing the Grizzlies’ dominance early on in the game, as they led by 17 points by the end of the first quarter. The match, attended by a sellout crowd of 18,424, served as a reminder of the NBA's growing international presence, especially in Europe.

Key takeaways

• Ja Morant's return was a highlight, as he scored 24 points in just 28 minutes of play.
• The match marked the NBA's first regular-season game in London since 2019.
• Notable celebrities were present, enhancing the game's atmosphere.

Timeline: how we got here

In recent months, the NBA has been expanding its international footprint. Key milestones include:

• 2019: Last NBA regular-season game held in London.
• 2023: Grizzlies vs. Magic match in London on 15 November, following their previous encounter in Berlin.
• 2027: Scheduled NBA regular-season match in Manchester, part of a double-header with Paris.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The game on 15 November 2023 not only marked a celebratory return to London but also showcased Morant's significant comeback performance. The Grizzlies' commanding victory provided a much-needed morale boost for the team as they navigate the season.

What was already established

Prior to this match, the NBA has been facing challenges in growing its audience in Europe, particularly with competition from established leagues like the EuroLeague. Discussions regarding the establishment of an independent European league have been ongoing, indicating the NBA's commitment to expanding its reach.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The return of the NBA to London stimulates local economies through increased tourism and event attendance. The sellout crowd reflects a strong interest in basketball, which could lead to more NBA events in the future.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses, particularly those in hospitality and retail, benefit from the influx of fans. Additionally, successful events like this could encourage more NBA teams to tour Europe, enhancing job opportunities in event management and related sectors.

Policy and regulation

As the NBA seeks to launch an independent European league, regulatory discussions with local sports authorities will be crucial. The potential for legal challenges from existing leagues like EuroLeague could complicate these plans.

Numbers that matter

• 24: Points scored by Ja Morant in his return game.
• 18,424: Attendance at the London match, showcasing strong fan interest.
• 6: Number of matches Morant missed due to an ankle injury before this game.

Definitions and jargon buster

• NBA: National Basketball Association, the premier professional basketball league in North America.
• EuroLeague: The top-tier European professional basketball club competition.
• Tariffs: Taxes imposed on imported goods, which can affect international trade relations.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans can expect more coverage of the Grizzlies as they continue to build momentum following this win. Additionally, the NBA's plans for future European matches will be closely monitored.

Medium term (1–6 months)

With Manchester set to host an NBA match in January 2024, anticipation will build. The league's discussions about establishing a European league will also be key to watch.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming announcements regarding the Manchester match and potential European league developments.
• Performance of the Grizzlies and other teams in the NBA as the season progresses.

Practical guidance

Do

• Keep an eye on NBA schedules for future London games.
• Engage with local basketball communities to follow the sport's growth.

Don’t

• Ignore discussions around the potential European league; they could reshape the basketball landscape.
• Assume the interest will wane; the NBA's international initiatives indicate a long-term commitment.

Checklist

• Stay updated on ticket releases for future NBA games.
• Follow NBA news for updates on league expansions and team performances.
• Engage with basketball-focused content to enhance your understanding of the sport.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The future of the NBA in Europe remains uncertain due to potential legal challenges from EuroLeague. Additionally, the success of the Manchester match and subsequent events will depend on fan engagement and attendance. Ongoing discussions with stakeholders will be crucial in determining the feasibility of a European league.

Bottom line

The Memphis Grizzlies' recent win in London not only signifies a successful return for the NBA but also highlights the sport's growing popularity in the UK. As the league explores opportunities for expansion in Europe, staying informed about upcoming matches and league developments will be essential for fans.

FAQs

What was significant about the Memphis Grizzlies' game in London?

The game marked the NBA's first regular-season match in London since 2019 and showcased Ja Morant's return from injury.

Who were some notable attendees at the game?

Famous faces included footballers Virgil van Dijk and Declan Rice, actress Rosamund Pike, and NBA legend Tony Parker.

What are the NBA's plans for European expansion?

The NBA is considering launching an independent European league by 2027-28, with ongoing discussions about potential teams and investors.