5 things to know about Abu Dhabi Games

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The last two teams to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy – the 2023 Denver Nuggets and 2024 Boston Celtics – arrived in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and will tip off the 2024-25 preseason on Friday (12 PM ET, NBA App) with the first of two games in the UAE.
1. Year 3 In Abu Dhabi: The NBA has played a pair of exhibition games in Abu Dhabi the past two seasons, showcasing some of the league’s brightest stars on a global stage.
it’s a must-see matchup between the past two champs
2. Familiar Territory For Four Olympians: Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday and Nikola Jokic return to Abu Dhabi for the second time in three months after participating in the USA Basketball Showcase to prepare for the Paris Olympics.
Team USA defeated host France to win gold, while Serbia defeated Germany to claim bronze
3. Champion Vs. Champion: Last season, Boston went a league-best 64-18, but there was one team it did not beat all season – the Nuggets.
4. First Looks At Both Teams: The Abu Dhabi Games tip 109 days after the Celtics won their 18th NBA title. Friday will be their first on-court action together after a summer of celebration.
The Nuggets will have a new lineup after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Denver filled its open roster spots with former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook and forward Dario Saric
5. Global Games Begin: The Abu Dhabi Games will open the preseason for the second straight year but will not be the only Global Games on the 2024-25 NBA calendar.
: After leading France to the silver medal at the Olympics, Victor Wembanyama returns home when the Spurs face the Pacers on Jan. 23 & 25