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The 2022-23 NBA season begins this week. The Atlanta Hawks made history by becoming one of the first teams to play an NBA game in Abu Dhabi ahead of the season opener.
The Eagles played two preseason games against the Milwaukee Bucks at the first Abu Dhabi Games. But beyond the games on the court, several high-profile events took place in the area to highlight NBA basketball culture. Here are 5 powerful moments.
Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks put on a show
The Eagles and Bucks didn’t disappoint on the court. The Eagles beat the Bucks 123-113 in their first preseason matchup at the Etihad Stadium on October 6, as the team got a chance to showcase Trae Young’s new backcourt partner Deutsche Welle Juntay Murray. Both players were influential, with Murray leading the charge with 25 points, nine assists and eight rebounds in just 30 minutes. Young had 22 points and DeAndre Hunter had 17. Two days later, the Hawks will sweep the Bucks behind Young’s dizzying 31-point performance. Off the field, the Eagles toured the historic Grand Mosque.
Dejounte Murray Discusses Atlanta Cultural Influence
After the first game, Murray spoke about the influence of Atlanta’s culture and helping the city onto the international stage through the Abu Dhabi Olympics. “Atlanta is a beautiful city with a beautiful culture, beautiful people, beautiful city,” Murray told ADW. “It’s a great thing that we can represent not only the Atlanta Hawks, but the city of Atlanta and the entire state of Georgia.”
Dominique Wilkins hosts NBA store opening
Atlanta Hawks legend Dominic Wilkins hosts the opening of the first NBA store in Abu Dhabi. Wilkins autographed and posed for photos with fans. “Bending the boundaries of basketball is important to the game,” Wilkins told ADW in an exclusive interview. “It’s a statement. Atlanta continues to show support beyond itself. Atlanta gives us the ability to do some amazing things. So that’s part of taking the next step.”
Shaq hosts Friday night in NBA District
On October 7, Shaquille O’Neal hosted a party in the NBA District. The NBA District hosted several events that included displays of Hall of Famers such as Shaquille O’Neal, Grant Hill, Isiah Thomas and more. Vince Carter. There’s also a video game area, a basketball court and a food village where attendees can experience the region’s cuisine. Shaq kept the crowd engaged with slogans and calls to action throughout the event. The night ended with a performance by Fabolous.
American celebrities Steve Harvey, Martin Lawrence and Shaq sit courtside
Several American celebrities traveled overseas to witness the Eagles take on the Bucks in Abu Dhabi. Steve Harvey, Martin Lawrence, Shaq and rapper OT Genesis were all on the sidelines during the game. When asked about meeting Harvey for the first time, Trae Young said: “It was actually the first time I met Steve Harvey. He told me how much he liked him. I was on different shows Seeing him, I’ve always been a fan of him. It’s a blessing and I don’t take it for granted at all.”
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