The Philadelphia 76ers had a season to forget last year after missing out on the NBA playoffs for the first time in seven seasons. A 24-58 record was all they could manage after fighting a losing battle against players’ injuries mid-season. Now, the Sixers look to bounce back from their woes by working on the players’ recovery and giving them the perfect preseason experience in Abu Dhabi ahead of a hopeful 2025-2026 season.
Injuries to some of the biggest names on the Sixers roster had strangled all hopes for a possible playoff spot long before the season’s curtains were drawn. Despite aspirations of contending for a championship, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George all exited the season early after having various injury setbacks.
However, there have been hopes of so much recovery between now and preseason, with some good news expected from Joel Embiid. After undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee earlier this month, it has been reported that he will be reevaluated in six weeks, as his return date remains unknown.
While the doctors are actively working to ensure the team is cleared of its injury woes by the time preseason rolls around, the team has been given the perfect platform for revival, with their preseason set to be held in Abu Dhabi.
On Thursday morning, the NBA Managing Director for Europe and the Middle East, George Aivazoglou, released a statement announcing that the Sixers will take on the New York Knicks for their NBA Abu Dhabi Games. The teams are set to meet twice in the United Arab Emirates on Oct. 2 and 4 at the Etihad Arena.
“Fans in Abu Dhabi will have the opportunity to see two of the NBA’s historic franchises when the Knicks and 76ers face off in October,” Aivazoglou noted. “We look forward to engaging fans and aspiring players from the local community and across the region for the fourth consecutive year, through our games and surrounding events.”
The preseason series continues what has become an annual culture of NBA teams having their preseason games abroad. The Minnesota Timberwolves, Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks, and Denver Nuggets have all participated in the Abu Dhabi games over the past four years.
Sixers’ managing partner Josh Harris also expressed his excitement about bringing the team overseas for a couple of contests.
“Bringing the Philadelphia 76ers to Abu Dhabi is an incredible opportunity to connect with new fans in a dynamic and growing region.” Sixers Managing Partner Josh Harris said in a statement. “As an organization, we’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences for our fans throughout the world. We’re proud to be part of the NBA’s efforts to grow the game internationally and look forward to representing the city of Philadelphia while engaging with the vibrant community in the UAE.”
As Harris looks forward to representing the city of Philadelphia in the Middle East and around the world, the Sixers are looking forward to starting the new season with the best medical report, as the franchise aims for better results.
