How to watch, stream, time, what to know
The NBA is a global sport, and international fans will soon be able to experience two beloved teams up close. Back in March, the league announced the 2022 NBA Japan Games and that they would play two preseason games there. The goal of the league is to expand the game further beyond the United States, something other American sports haven’t done nearly as well while the NBA has been successful.
Who is playing in Japan at the NBA Global Games 2022?
The defending champions, the Golden State Warriors, will face the Washington Wizards in two preseason games. The Warriors have not faced another team since defeating the Boston Celtics in the Finals in June.
This gives fans in Japan the first opportunity to see them as they begin their quest for another championship. It also gives them a chance to see the Wizards who have some exciting young players alongside one of the league’s top scorers.
Where in Japan will the Warriors and Wizards play?
The two exhibition matches will be played at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama City. The city of Saitama is only an hour away from Tokyo, the largest city in the world, allowing more fans easy access to the games. Additionally, the arena can hold at least 22,000 fans, more than the average NBA arena.
Why did the NBA choose to play in Japan?
The NBA has historically used the preseason to schedule games in different countries to ensure fans around the world have a chance to enjoy a game. They previously held pre-season games in Japan in 2019 but haven’t been able to return until now.
With the success of the previous series, a return to Japan was inevitable given the rapidly growing fanbase there. Additionally, the Warriors are sponsored by Rakuten, a Tokyo-based company, while the Wizards’ Rui Hachimura is Japanese, further fueling local interest in the games.
What are the dates and times of the 2022 NBA Japan Games?
The first game between the Warriors and Wizards will take place on September 30, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time on NBA TV. The second exhibition game will take place on October 2, 2022 at 1:00 a.m. Eastern Time on NBA TV. With two games, more fans have the opportunity to see a game in person and watch it on TV.
Overall, the two exhibition games will feature several All-Stars including Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green and Bradley Beal. Their inclusion will make both games must-watches for fans around the world.