The Dallas Mavericks have a “very good chance” of playing in China next preseason, according to Brad Townsend. Mavericks governor Patrick Dumont attended the recent Nets-Suns NBA China games in Macao, signaling the team’s interest in international play.
Dumont’s presence was notable as he and Las Vegas Sands helped resolve a six-year stalemate between the NBA and the Chinese government. The NBA China games were held at Sands’ Venetian Arena, underscoring the growing relationship between the league and its Chinese partners.
The game could feature two Texas teams – the Mavericks and the Houston Rockets. “Yes, the [Dallas] Mavericks and the [Houston] Rockets, here in Macau next year. Are you ready?” Dumont said, per SCMP.
If finalized, the trip would mark a significant opportunity for the Mavericks to expand their global footprint. The team could showcase stars like Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg to an international audience.
The NBA recently signed a multi-year partnership with the Chinese Basketball Association, aiming to provide increased opportunities for Chinese athletes to compete professionally in the U.S.. Commissioner Adam Silver called the agreement “transformational,” emphasizing its potential to grow talent across both countries.
The initiative includes exposure to NBA and WNBA training, coaching exchanges, and competitive programs designed to accelerate development for young Chinese players. The deal builds on the league’s longstanding efforts to promote basketball globally, combining international games with grassroots development programs.
With Dumont’s involvement and the NBA-China partnership, the Mavericks are positioned to be one of the first teams to benefit from this global initiative.
