Orlando Magic 'Excited' to Play in Mexico City vs. Atlanta Hawks
The Orlando Magic is preparing for its Mexico City matchup against the division rival Atlanta Hawks.
This will be the Magic's fourth time playing in Mexico since 2012. The matchup will take place on November 9, which is the early stages of the season.
“We’re excited to welcome the Hawks and Magic to Mexico City next season and give our passionate fans the opportunity to see some of the brightest young stars in the game," NBA Mexico Vice President Raul Zarraga said in a statement. "There is so much momentum around basketball in Mexico, and this game and the surrounding events will serve as the ultimate celebration of the NBA for fans across the country and throughout Latin America.”
The game will feature some of the NBA's premier names. The Hawks have Trae Young and Dejounte Murray on their squad and the Magic has up-and-coming talents like Paolo Banchero, Anthony Black and Franz Wagner.
Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray shooting over Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony
Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
“With the Magic having been to London twice, Japan, China, Brazil and Mexico City previously, we love representing the NBA and the City of Orlando when we have the opportunity to play in these Global Games," Magic CEO Alex Martins said. "We’ve had the opportunity to be in Mexico City before, and we know the passion of the fans and are really looking forward to bringing our team back to Mexico City to play.”
The NBA has brought a recent focus to take both the sport and association global. The Magic is able to play a part in that, and even more now that they have Banchero as a rising star. With a potential All-Star appearance on the horizon, the Magic will continue and get opportunities like this.
Tipoff between the Hawks and Magic is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET on Thursday inside Arena CDMX.
