NBA China Games 2026 Tickets: Mavericks vs. Rockets in Macau

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-08-10

The NBA is heading back to China in a big way, and this time it's bringing two of the Western Conference's most exciting teams along for the ride. The Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets will face off in a pair of preseason games at The Venetian Arena in Macau, and tickets officially go on sale to the public on August 12. If you've been waiting for a chance to see Luka Dončić and company up close, this is your window. ### What You Need to Know About Ticket Sales The league and Sands China Ltd. announced that tickets will be available starting at noon China Standard Time through several official channels. You can grab yours via Cotai Ticketing, Taobao 88VIP, Trip.com, or MPay. That's a wide net, which should make the process a bit smoother for fans both in the region and abroad. - **On-sale date:** August 12, 12:00 PM China Standard Time - **Venue:** The Venetian Arena, Macau - **Teams:** Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets - **Game dates:** Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10 (both at 7:30 PM local time) ### Why This Matchup Matters This isn't just another pair of preseason games. The Mavericks are coming off a deep playoff run and have one of the most electrifying players in the league. The Rockets, meanwhile, are a young squad loaded with raw talent and something to prove. Seeing these two teams go head-to-head in an international setting adds a layer of intrigue that regular exhibition games just don't have. For fans in the United States, this is also a chance to catch a glimpse of how these rosters are shaping up before the regular season tips off. Preseason games often reveal rotation decisions, chemistry between new teammates, and which rookies might actually earn meaningful minutes. ### The Growing Appeal of International NBA Games The NBA has been pushing hard to grow its global footprint, and games in Macau are a key part of that strategy. The Venetian Arena is a world-class facility that's hosted everything from boxing to major concerts, and now it's adding basketball to that legacy. For the league, it's about reaching new audiences and strengthening ties with partners in Asia. For fans, it's a chance to see top-tier basketball without having to fly to the United States. And with ticket sales opening through multiple platforms, the league is clearly trying to make the process as accessible as possible. ### How to Prepare for the On-Sale Date If you're serious about getting tickets, you'll want to be ready before August 12 rolls around. Here's a quick checklist to help you out: - Create accounts on Cotai Ticketing, Trip.com, or MPay ahead of time - Set a reminder for noon China Standard Time - Have your payment method ready (international credit cards may work, but check in advance) - Consider using Taobao 88VIP if you're already a member, as there may be early access perks ### Final Thoughts This is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated international NBA events of the year. Whether you're a die-hard Mavericks fan, a Rockets supporter, or just someone who loves live basketball, these two games in Macau are worth your attention. Mark your calendar, set your alarms, and get ready to secure your spot for what promises to be a memorable October weekend. Keep an eye on official NBA channels for any updates on ticket availability, additional events, or roster announcements as the date gets closer. This is one of those moments where being prepared really pays off.