On January 18, 2026, the NBA returned to London with a regular-season game at the O2 Arena, its first
appearance in the city since 2019. The matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and the Orlando Magic drew
fans from across the UK and Europe, highlighting the league’s expanding international reach and the growing appetite for elite basketball beyond North America.
Well before tip-off, the arena pulsed with excitement as more than 18,000 spectators filled the stands.
Jerseys, banners, and conversations in multiple languages reflected the unique atmosphere of an international
NBA event, where sport doubles as a cultural gathering. These games often feel celebratory, blending American basketball traditions with a global audience eager for live action.
The pre-game ceremony took an unexpected turn during the U.S. national anthem, performed by singer and
actress Vanessa Williams. Midway through her rendition, a lone voice from the crowd shouted, “Leave Greenland alone!”
The remark briefly cut through the ceremonial quiet, prompting a mix of cheers and boos before Williams calmly finished the anthem without interruption.
The shout referenced ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.
In recent months, President Donald Trump had renewed rhetoric about increasing U.S. control over the island
for strategic reasons, drawing firm opposition from Denmark and concern from European allies.
For many in the London crowd, the outburst was interpreted as a pointed protest against perceived American overreach.
Once play began, the focus returned to basketball. Led by Ja Morant, the Grizzlies controlled the game
and secured a 126–109 victory. Morant’s dynamic performance energized the arena, while Orlando remained
competitive through stretches, giving fans the high-level contest they had hoped to see.
Afterward, media attention lingered on the anthem interruption, sparking debate about politics in sports.
Still, the evening ultimately underscored why the NBA invests globally: the game’s ability to unite diverse
audiences, even as broader world issues occasionally find their way into the spotlight.
