The NBA has set up a temporary base in the United Arab Emirates as part of a global expansion taking its operations into a new overseas market.
Earlier today, defending NBA champions the Milwaukee Bucks played the Atlanta Hawks in the first of two pre-season games at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
The arena has hosted various sports and entertainment events, including mixed martial arts (MMA), boxing, and professional wrestling (WWE).
It has an official capacity of 18,000 according to its website.
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NBA News - Atlanta Hawks vs Milwaukee Bucks headlines NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022
Giannis Antetokounmpo looks dejected after the Milwaukee Bucks lose to the Atlanta Hawks on the NBA's debut in the Middle East
The Hawks beat the Bucks 123-113 with Dejounte Murray topping the charts with 25 points.
Reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo meanwhile finished the game with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists for the Bucks.
Antetokounmpo, aka 'The Greek Freak', posted a photo of himself on social media immediately following the loss.
He captioned the post: "Great to be back out there with my teammates."
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Antetokounmpo, 27, had previously expressed his excitement at playing basketball in the Arabian Gulf for the first time.
Speaking earlier this week, he said: “It’s my first time coming to Abu Dhabi, it’s a great experience! Everyone loves basketball – it’s global! The NBA bringing us here to the Arab world for its first game is making history and being part of that and being part of history is a great feeling and I hope everyone in the world can experience what basketball is all about.
“I would tell my younger self to get ready for the ride! To get ready for the journey, that it’s going to be a long journey with lots of ups and downs but to always be happy for the things you accomplish and for the way you made people feel. And to stay focused on that journey, and to get focused on getting better and moving forward. Things are going to be alright.”
His brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo added: “We’re going to play hard. We’re going to try to give the fans a show! The weather is hot, but I’m excited to see more and more things. We’re excited.”
While Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer continued: “We want to build our habits during the regular season, so we are prepared for the playoffs when it matters most. Hold each other accountable as we build those habits – the competitiveness of our team and the competitiveness collectively.”
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