Some of the Premier League’s biggest names were among the crowd as the NBA returned to London on Sunday night.
The regular-season clash between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies at The O2 Arena brought together stars from across sport and entertainment for a sold-out event.
It was the NBA’s first regular-season game in the city since 2019, and the atmosphere matched the occasion.
Players and fans packed the stands to watch a high-scoring contest that showcased some of the league’s best on a global stage.
Premier League stars enjoy courtside NBA experience
Several well-known Premier League players were spotted enjoying the action courtside, adding extra star power to the event.
Arsenal’s Declan Rice was among those in attendance, joined by Kobbie Mainoo, Joao Pedro, Virgil van Dijk and Curtis Jones.
For the players, it was a rare chance to unwind during a busy fixture period while still surrounded by elite-level competition.
The NBA’s growing influence among footballers continues to be clear, with many Premier League stars following the league closely and taking inspiration from its style and culture.
The London showcase offered a glimpse of that crossover – where football’s biggest names meet basketball’s brightest stars.
Ja Morant leads Grizzlies to victory in London
On the court, Ja Morant marked his return in style, scoring 24 points and adding 13 assists to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 126–109 win over the Orlando Magic.
It was a fitting headline performance in front of a global crowd that featured athletes, celebrities, and fans from across sports.
Jock Landale impressed with 21 points and eight rebounds, while Jaren Jackson Jr added 17, as Memphis avenged their 118–111 loss to Orlando in Berlin earlier in the week.
The Grizzlies raced into a 33-point lead in the first half before Paolo Banchero sparked a brief Orlando fightback with a three-pointer, cutting the gap to 17 in the fourth quarter.
But Morant and his teammates closed the game out confidently, sealing a result that capped off a successful return to London for the NBA.
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