The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced that legendary players Isiah Thomas and DeMarcus Cousins will headline the second edition of BUDX NBA House, scheduled for May 9 and 10 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
BUDX NBA House offers an immersive fan experience blending basketball with music, style and culture. The line-up was revealed as the two-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas and four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins interacted with fans, according to a statement.
Rajah Chaudhry, Head of Strategy, APAC, NBA, said the event aims to bring the NBA experience closer to Indian fans by combining basketball with music, fashion, sneaker culture and community engagement. Following a successful debut in Mumbai, the New Delhi edition will include NBA legends, celebrity games, live performances and interactive activities.
Chaudhry added: “The vision behind BUDX NBA House has always been to bring the energy of the NBA experience closer to fans in India. Events like these allow us to bring together the excitement of basketball with music, fashion, sneaker culture and community in a way that feels authentic and locally relevant. Following a successful first edition in Mumbai, we’re excited to bring BUDX NBA House to New Delhi this year alongside our partners at Budweiser, with NBA legends, celebrity game performances, fan experiences and “Interactive programming that celebrates the many ways fans connect with the game.”
The weekend program includes basketball-themed activities along with music performances by NAV, Oppidan, Yashraj, Reble, Fijiana, The Bausa and Chor Bazaar. The 3-on-3 celebrity game will feature Shanaya Kapoor, Rannvijay Singha, Arvind Krishna, Varun Sood, Sonia Rathee, Simran Kaur, Harman Singha, Shireen Limaye, Lalrina Renthlei, Dhruv Barman and Anant Ahuja.
Additional attractions will include photo opportunities with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, plus performances by Sacramento Kings mascot Slamson, the Kings Dancers and the Kings’ dunk team. The event will also host BUDX Masterclasses comprising expert-led workshops and panel discussions to educate and engage emerging artists, DJs and fans, alongside streetwear showcases, diverse food and beverage options, and more.
Isiah Thomas emphasized basketball’s power to unite people across cultures and generations and its role in teaching values such as teamwork and discipline. He said: “Sports has always been a catalyst for bringing societies and communities together, and basketball has a unique ability to connect people across cultures, backgrounds, and generations. What makes this game so powerful is that it goes far beyond the court, it teaches teamwork, discipline, relationships, and gives young people the opportunity to experience the world in a completely different way. One of my coaches once told me that basketball would allow me to travel the world and meet people from all walks. of life, and that’s exactly what this game has done for me; it’s about connection, community, and opening doors for young people.”
DeMarcus Cousins described India as a country with warm and welcoming people and expressed optimism about the potential of basketball there: “India is a beautiful country with some of the warmest and most welcoming people I’ve experienced, and you can truly feel the passion and appreciation for the game here. What excites me most is the sheer potential this market holds, not just for growing basketball globally, but for building something meaningful within the community.”
He also praised the natural talent of Indian players: “Being around the players here, I was impressed immediately by the natural size, athleticism, and raw talent. Skill development will come with time, but the foundation is already there. I genuinely believe basketball in India can become something very special, and I’m grateful to be a part of this journey and hopefully continue being a part of its future.”
BUDX NBA House is part of the NBA’s broader strategy to engage fans in India through authentic, on-site experiences celebrating the sport and its culture. The league continues to expand its presence in the country, connecting with a new generation of fans through basketball, music, fashion and entertainment.
Attendees can expect live music, interactive fan zones, exclusive merchandise and unique experiences designed to recreate the excitement of the NBA Finals in New Delhi. Tickets for BUDX NBA House are available via District by Zomato.
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