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The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks are in Macao for two NBA preseason games on October 9 and 11, 2026. The NBA China Games bring the teams to Asia as the league looks to strengthen its international presence, connect with basketball fans and expand its commercial reach beyond North America.
Why Are the Rockets and Mavericks Playing in Macao?
The NBA China Games are part of the league’s international strategy, taking regular-season teams overseas for preseason basketball and fan engagement. The 2026 edition marks the 16th NBA China Games, which began in 2004 and have featured 30 preseason contests.
Macao is hosting the event for the second consecutive year after the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets played there in October 2025. Both 2026 games will take place at The Venetian Arena, with the NBA and Sands China also organising fan activities, youth basketball clinics and community programmes.
The wider programme allows the league to reach supporters outside the United States through live basketball, player appearances and interactive experiences. The NBA says the 2026 China Games will reach audiences in more than 200 countries and territories through television and digital streaming.
NBA China Games 2026: Schedule and Venue
The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks are scheduled to meet twice at The Venetian Arena.
First game: Friday, October 9, at 8 pm Macao time.
Second game: Sunday, October 11, at 6 pm Macao time.
Dallas Mavericks vs Houston Rockets: Kyrie Irving’s Return In Focus
The Rockets vs Mavericks games also carry significance for Dallas guard Kyrie Irving, who is preparing to return after missing the entire 2025-26 season with a torn ACL suffered in March 2025. Reuters reported on October 8 that the nine-time NBA All-Star was looking forward to playing again after a 19-month absence.
For both teams, the Macao trip combines preseason preparation with international exposure. The Rockets and Mavericks will continue their preparations for the new NBA season after the two-game series, with the regular season scheduled to begin later in October.