Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans are heading to Australia, making history as the first NBA team to play down under.
The Herald Sun reports Williamson’s side will play both Melbourne-based NBL teams this October at Rod Laver Arena.
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Melbourne United will host the Pelicans on Friday October 3, before the South East Melbourne Phoenix face the Pelicans on Sunday October 5.
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It’s the first time an NBA team will play in Australia.
“To see the journey the NBL has gone on – from playing at the Albert Park stadium to now on the biggest stage against an NBA team in Australia – is absolutely amazing and showcases how respected the league is on a global stage,” Aussie basketball legend and co-host of Fox Footy’s Bounce Andrew Gaze said.
“I’m so proud to see how far our sport has come.”
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 16: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives against Taurean Prince #12 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on April 16, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Jonathan Bachman / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 16: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives against Taurean Prince #12 and LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of a game at the Smoothie King Center on April 16, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Jonathan Bachman / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)Source: AFP
The Pelicans are struggling through a terrible season and could bring the No.1 pick, likely to be Duke sensation Cooper Flagg, with them if they win the Draft Lottery later this year.
As it stands the Pelicans are fourth-last in the NBA but thanks to the flattened odds system have a 12.5% shot at the No.1 pick behind Washington, Utah and Charlotte at 14%.
Along with ex-No.1 pick Williamson the Pelicans also feature the likes of CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray.
Melbourne will also host the country’s first NFL game in 2026 though that will be an actual regular season game rather than an exhibition.