A number of the Premier League’s greatest names had been among the many crowd because the NBA returned to London on Sunday evening.
The regular-season conflict between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies at The O2 Area introduced collectively stars from throughout sport and leisure for a sold-out occasion.
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It was the first regular-season recreation within the metropolis since 2019, and the environment matched the event.
Gamers and followers packed the stands to look at a high-scoring contest that showcased a few of the league’s finest on a world stage.
Premier League stars get pleasure from courtside NBA expertise
A number of well-known gamers had been noticed having fun with the motion courtside, including further star energy to the occasion.
Arsenal’s was amongst these in attendance, joined by , Joao Pedro, and Curtis Jones.
Picture by Glyn KIRK / AFP by way of Getty Pictures
For the gamers, it was a uncommon probability to unwind throughout a busy fixture interval whereas nonetheless surrounded by elite-level competitors.
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The NBA’s rising affect amongst footballers continues to be clear, with many Premier League stars following the league intently and taking inspiration from its model and tradition.
The London showcase provided a glimpse of that crossover – the place soccer’s greatest names meet basketball’s brightest stars.
Ja Morant leads Grizzlies to victory in London
On the courtroom, Ja Morant marked his return in model, scoring 24 factors and including 13 assists to steer the Memphis Grizzlies to a 126–109 win over the Orlando Magic.
It was a becoming headline efficiency in entrance of a world crowd that featured athletes, celebrities, and followers from throughout sports activities.
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Jock Landale impressed with 21 factors and eight rebounds, whereas Jaren Jackson Jr added 17, as Memphis avenged their 118–111 loss to Orlando in Berlin earlier within the week.
The Grizzlies raced right into a 33-point lead within the first half earlier than Paolo Banchero sparked a short Orlando fightback with a three-pointer, reducing the hole to 17 within the fourth quarter.
However Morant and his teammates closed the sport out confidently, sealing a consequence that capped off a profitable return to London for the NBA.