NBA preseason action has returned to Macao, China, where the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will play in a two-game series.
Friday’s opening matchup at The Venetian Arena saw the Mavericks’ offense shine, led by reigning Rookie of the Year Cooper Flagg, along with strong performances from Naji Marshall, Zaccharie Risacher and Max Christie.
Despite their efforts, the Mavericks fell 135-117 to a seasoned Rockets squad. Houston was led by Kevin Durant, who began his 19th NBA season, along with Fred VanVleet and Amen Thompson.
Beyond the games, this preseason trip offers an immersive experience both on and off the court. The Venetian Arena will become a basketball hub featuring NBA House, an interactive expo that blends music, live entertainment,
fashion and retail experiences to celebrate basketball culture.
Fans will also have the chance to participate in NBA Fan Day on Saturday, Oct. 10, an event where they can interact with players and enjoy performances by top Asian artists. These festivities set the stage for the second preseason game on Sunday, Oct. 11.
What are the NBA China Games?
The NBA China Games bring two preseason matchups between the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets at The Venetian Arena in Macao on Oct. 9 and 11 at 6 a.m. ET.
Fans in the U.S. can watch the NBA China Games on NBA TV and NBA League Pass.
Why are the Rockets so popular in China?
The Houston Rockets rose to popularity in China largely thanks to Chinese basketball legend Yao Ming. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft, Yao spent all nine seasons with the Rockets before retiring in 2011.
NBA's other international showcases
This season, the NBA has five events outside the U.S.
Beyond the doubleheader contests in China and the Canada Game in Quebec City, the NBA’s international calendar features additional stops in Mexico City, Paris and Manchester.
Here is a look at the International showcase schedule (times ET)
- Oct. 10: NBA Canada Game (Toronto Raptors vs. LA Clippers), 6:30 p.m.
- Oct. 9 and 11: NBA China Games (Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets), 6 a.m.
- Nov. 7: NBA Mexico City Game (Denver Nuggets vs. Indiana Pacers), 5:30 p.m.
- Jan. 14: NBA Paris Game (New Orleans Pelicans vs. San Antonio Spurs), 2 p.m.
- Jan 17: NBA Manchester Game (New Orleans Pelicans vs. San Antonio Spurs), 10:30 a.m.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rockets vs. Mavericks in China: What to know about NBA China Games 2026
