Thu 24-08-2023 12:09 PM
ABU DHABI, 24th August, 2023 (WAM) — The USA Basketball Men’s National Team concluded a trip to Abu Dhabi by taking time-out to visit some of the UAE capital’s most prominent landmarks and soak in some Emirati culture.
Team USA made history last week when they participated in a pair of high-profile exhibition games as part of the inaugural International Basketball Week and USA Basketball Showcase, organised as part of a strategic partnership between The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) – Abu Dhabi and the National Basketball Association (NBA).
With victories over Greece and Germany at Etihad Arena, the USA team also took the opportunity to soak in some Emirati culture with a trip to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Head Coach Steve Kerr – who was born in Lebanon – posed for photos with his wife, while Mikal Bridges and Nets teammate Cam Johnson took photos with guides. During their week-long stay in Abu Dhabi, other players and staff took part in desert activities, and visited alternative landmarks across the city, including the Ferrari World theme park and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Bridges reflected on his time in the UAE capital. “Thank you, Abu Dhabi, for making my first trip here so memorable,” Bridges said. “Everyone welcomed us with open arms, the fans were engaged and excited, and the city was beautiful. Aside from basketball, I learned more about the culture here, which was highlighted by a trip to the spectacular Grand Mosque. We appreciate the hospitality and will see you soon.”
Abu Dhabi has firmly established itself as a premier sports tourism destination in recent years. A historic milestone was achieved last year when Abu Dhabi hosted NBA games for the first time. Featuring two pre-season games as part of The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2022, the Milwaukee Bucks faced the Atlanta Hawks. Building on this legacy, The NBA Abu Dhabi Games Presented by ADQ, will return on 5th and 7th October with the Dallas Mavericks playing the Timberwolves at the Etihad Arena. Ticket demand is high, but remaining tickets can be secured at etihadarena.ae or ticketmaster.ae.
Binsal Abdulkader/ Esraa Esmail