READY TO PLAY: New York Knicks Open NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 with Win over Philadelphia 76ers

The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 98–84 on Thursday evening  (2 October) at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, kicking off the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ. The matchup marked the 76ers’ first-ever appearance in the region and gave fans an unforgettable evening of high-energy basketball.

Celebrities in attendance included Kiefer Sutherland, Steve Harvey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Nadine Nassib Njeim, popular American YouTuber Jesser, and global streetball icon The Professor, among others. The event also featured entertainment performances during timeouts and halftime, highlighted by rapper Fat Joe.

The Knicks secured a strong first preseason win, led by Miles McBride with 12 points and Mitchell Robinson with 16 rebounds. Philadelphia was paced by 14 points each from Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe, the third overall pick in the most recent draft, who made his unofficial NBA debut.

Knicks head coach Mike Brown praised his team’s defensive progress, saying: “Just like I’m sure Philadelphia feels, we believe our ceiling is really high. It was the first time out there for both teams, but I’ve got to give our guys credit. As the game went along, we improved on the things we’ve been working on in training camp, The guys did a good job of helping and then recovering to their man.”

76ers head coach Nick Nurse spoke highly of rookie VJ Edgecombe following his NBA preseason debut: “I really liked his defense, especially in the first half. He’s a great athlete and was making things difficult — getting over screens, jumping into passing lanes, applying ball pressure. He even showed some defensive rebounding and shot-blocking ability. For a young player going up against experienced NBA guys, he took on the challenge and impressed me with his quickness and physicality.”

Edgecombe, who finished the game with 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists, reflected on his first appearance: “Overall, it’s a dream come true. First time on the floor, it felt good.”

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) through its destination brand, Experience Abu Dhabi, had partnered with the New York Knicks to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at Sheikha Fatima Park ahead of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025.

The court was officially inaugurated at an event attended by His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi. His Excellency was joined at the court unveiling by Madison Square Garden Sports Executive Chairman & CEO James Dolan, as well as Knicks greats John Starks and Stephon Marbury. The project embodies DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating expriences for the community to enjoy and connect.

The court’s design, led by self-taught Emirati artist Aysha Saif Al Hamrani, is inspired by traditional Emirati mandoos furniture—a decorative wooden chest used to safeguard valuables. Its patterns are reimagined across the court surface, framing the Knicks logo and linking Abu Dhabi heritage with basketball culture.

Details such as the central circle, echoing the mandoos ‘lock plate’ and motifs along the sidelines highlight Emirati craftsmanship, transforming the court into a living artwork.

Explaining the concept behind the artwork, Al Hamrani said: “The mandoos is traditionally crafted in mirrored halves, rich with repetition and balance. Similarly, a basketball court is symmetrical, with two sides reflecting each other. By layering mandoos-inspired geometry into the court, the floor becomes a dialogue between tradition and sport, heritage and modernity.”

Located in the heart of the city, Sheikha Fatima Park is a popular green urban escape known for its adventure zones, dining spots, and family-friendly spaces. The newly refurbished basketball court adds a dynamic space for families, friends, and basketball fans to play, explore, and enjoy together.

This is the second community court refurbishment in Abu Dhabi, following the redesign at Reem Central Park. Together, the projects demonstrate DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating spaces that inspire people to stay active, celebrate culture, and strengthen community ties.