NBA Partners with Sands China for Macau Games

Macau has secured a multi-year agreement with the NBA to host preseason games, marking a strategic shift as the region aims to diversify its economy beyond gambling. The partnership, formed with Sands China, will feature two preseason games annually starting in October 2024, with the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns kicking off the event. This initiative includes an NBA legends celebrity game on December 7, hosted at the Venetian Arena, which has recently undergone renovations. Hong Kong, previously considered for such events, lost out due to inadequate facilities, as Macau's venues proved more appealing to the NBA. The move aligns with Macau's government goals to increase non-gaming revenue streams and reduce dependence on the casino industry, which currently contributes about 80% of local tax revenue. Authorities aim for non-gaming sectors to account for 60% of GDP by 2028, promoting tourism and cultural initiatives alongside high-profile sports events.