NBA Bringing Exhibition Games to Macau in 2025 with Nets, Suns Matchup
The NBA will host preseason exhibition games in Macau following a multi-year agreement with Sands China. The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns will face off at the Venetian Arena, marking an important expansion into Asian markets.
In significant league updates, the NBA and its sportsbook partners have agreed to eliminate under player proposition wagers for the 2024-25 season. This decision aims to protect the integrity of the game and prevent potential manipulation.
The league has recently dealt with several betting-related incidents. Former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter received a lifetime ban for sports betting and game-fixing violations. The scandal led to multiple arrests, including a New York "poker shark" who allegedly attempted to flee to Australia. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized that match-fixing violations could result in permanent expulsion from the league.
Las Vegas continues to emerge as a potential NBA expansion site, with Commissioner Silver confirming the city's position on the shortlist. A proposed arena project has shifted focus to the Rio site, while Red Bull has expressed interest in franchise ownership.
Recent notable developments include:
- Tracy McGrady's appointment as BetVictor Canada Ambassador
- NBA awards voters being barred from betting on related markets
- Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler receiving a poker show ban
- Rudy Gobert's $100K fine for suggesting game manipulation
- NBA League Pass introducing integrated betting features ahead of playoffs
The league is actively pushing for federal sports betting regulations following recent controversies, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining game integrity while adapting to the evolving sports betting landscape.
Notably, the Sacramento Kings have attracted attention after a bettor placed a significant wager that would pay $10M if the team wins the NBA title, highlighting the growing intersection of basketball and sports betting.