The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024, presented by ADQ, are proving to be not just a preseason showcase, but a cultural experience for the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets. As the two teams gear up for a pair of ties on October 4 and 6 at Etihad Arena, the players reflected post-practice yesterday on the importance of the UAE camp in their preparations, the cultural connections they are building, and the excitement of playing in the Emirates.
Building Bonds in Abu Dhabi
Celtics star Jalen Brown – last season’s Finals MVP – already feels comfortable in the capital. “This place feels like a home away from home for me,” he shared, emphasising his connection with the UAE after spending two months here during the off-season. “I’ve been fortunate to travel all around the world, and one of the places I’ve really connected with is the UAE.”
Brown expressed appreciation for the values and culture that align with his personal beliefs: “The safety, the sense of certainty, and some of the fundamental values align with my own views. It’s refreshing for the mind, body, and spirit to step away from everything back home for a bit. It’s like a mental reset, and being here provides that.”
Brown is also excited about the challenge the Games present, especially facing the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets. “Facing a championship-calibre team such as Denver is a great opportunity for us to sharpen our tools,” Brown said. “It’s fitting that two champions get to globalise the game here in Abu Dhabi, which is an amazing place. The NBA did a great job setting this up.”
Jason Tatum also reflected on how being in Abu Dhabi helps build team chemistry. “We’ve only had a few days of practice, but visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and spending time together away from home really brings us closer as a team,” Tatum said, further emphasising the importance of this shared experience. “Going to the other side of the world, visiting the mosque yesterday — it’s a unique experience compared to a normal training camp. Building that chemistry is going to be really beneficial for the season.”
Denver’s Perspective on Abu Dhabi
For Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, last season’s MVP, the Abu Dhabi experience has been special from the moment he arrived. “They gave us an amazing welcome,” he said. “It really shows how good of a host they are. It felt very special.
“I would love to see the horses because I hear the best ones are here. I probably won’t have time this trip, but maybe one day I will,” Jokic added, hinting at his admiration for the country’s renowned thoroughbreds.
Russell Westbrook, the former MVP and a new addition on the Nuggets roster, is equally excited to explore Abu Dhabi. “I’d love to do some shopping and just walk around to explore Abu Dhabi a bit,” Westbrook said, expressing his anticipation for the cultural immersion beyond the basketball court. For him, the trip is also about building connections with his new teammates: “It’s about making sure I’m connected with the guys and the team.”
Looking Ahead
As the Celtics and Nuggets prepare to clash in the UAE capital, both teams are using this trip to not only gear up for the NBA season, but to embrace a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience.
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