Get ready, basketball fans, because the NBA is about to make history in Berlin, and you won’t want to miss this! For the first time ever, a regular-season NBA game will be played on German soil, marking a monumental moment for the league and its global expansion. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic will face off against Jaren Jackson Jr. and the Memphis Grizzlies on January 15, 2026, at the iconic Uber Arena. And this is just the beginning—this game kicks off a three-year slate of NBA games in Europe, with future matchups set for Manchester and Paris in 2027, and Berlin and Paris again in 2028. But here’s the part most people miss: this isn’t just about basketball; it’s a cultural celebration that includes fan experiences, community outreach, and even a chance to see the Larry O’Brien Trophy up close at the NBA House in Berlin.
What’s the big deal about the NBA Berlin Game? Presented by Tissot, this game is one of seven international showcases during the 2025-26 season, joining events in Abu Dhabi, Melbourne, Canada, China, Mexico City, and London. It’s the 14th time an NBA team has played in Germany since 1984, but the first regular-season game, making it a historic milestone. Tip-off is at 8 p.m. CET (2 p.m. ET), and you can catch all the action live on Prime Video. But here’s a question to spark debate: Is the NBA’s global expansion diluting the league’s traditional American identity, or is it a necessary step to grow the sport worldwide? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Where and how can you experience this event? The Uber Arena, a 17,000-seat venue in the heart of Berlin, will host the game. Tickets are available now, and if you’re looking for a premium experience, NBA Experiences offers VIP access and exclusive moments. But don’t forget about the NBA House, open from January 9 to 11, where you can meet NBA legends, compete on a half court, and even snag limited-edition merchandise. And for those who can’t make it to the arena, there’s an Official Viewing Party on game day.
What makes this matchup so compelling? First, there’s the Wagner brothers—Moe and Franz—both German natives returning home. Moe recently returned from a year-long ACL injury, while Franz is racing to recover from an ankle sprain to play in his hometown. Then there’s the Desmond Bane factor: traded to the Magic last summer, this will be his first time facing his former Grizzlies teammates. And let’s not forget the star power: Paolo Banchero, Ja Morant, and Jaren Jackson Jr. will all be on the global stage, giving fans a chance to see some of the league’s brightest talents in action. But here’s a controversial take: With both teams in the playoff hunt, will this game be a competitive showdown or a PR-driven spectacle? Share your predictions below!
From the court to the community, the NBA Berlin Game promises to be more than just a basketball game—it’s a celebration of the sport’s global reach and cultural impact. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this is one event you won’t want to miss. So, mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to be part of history!
