Pelicans to become first NBA team to play in Australia

MELBOURNE, Australia — The New Orleans Pelicans will become the first NBA team to play in Australia when they tip off in two pre-season games in October, organizers said Tuesday.

Both matches, against Melbourne United and Melbourne Phoenix, will be played at Melbourne Park, best known for hosting the Australian Open tennis Grand Slam.

"The significance of this announcement for basketball in Australia and the NBL can't be overstated," Larry Kestelman, owner and director of Australia's National Basketball League, said in a statement.

"Hosting an NBA team in Australia has been a long-held dream for everyone at the NBL and to see this initiative finally come to fruition after a 15-year journey shows that much can be accomplished when you 'dream big'."

The Pelicans, who feature two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson and top point guard Dejounte Murray, will be in action on October 3 and 5.

"This is an exciting moment for our organization and a testament to the growing global impact of the NBA," said Pelicans president Dennis Lauscha.

"Bringing the Pelicans and NBA to Australia for the first time is a proud milestone and we are thrilled to be part of this unique opportunity to engage with fans in Melbourne."