The NBA showcases its product in Europe in a dazzling way. Amidst the debate about its landing on the continent in the form of a league that displaces the traditional yet struggling EuroLeague, Adam Silver displays his gallery of wonders. That go far beyond what happens on the court. Even though at the O2 Arena in London, the ineffable and brilliant Ja Morant returned to action, the show in itself (24 points, 13 assists, and everything else). Perhaps that is the key, that what Magic and Grizzlies delivered (126 to 109 for the Tennessee team, dominating from start to finish) on the court, in an official game, was the least important.
It's the sense of American-style spectacle. This time the circus returns to London (they played in Berlin on Thursday after three consecutive years in Paris under the effect of Wembanyama), a country with residual basketball but full of fans. Almost 20,000, all sold at a premium in the O2 stands, which is much more than a pavilion. It's the vastness of leisure, with over 30 restaurants, climbing sites, cinemas, bowling alleys, exhibitions, and everything imaginable just four metro stops from central London. As if baskets weren't enough.
The front rows were a parade of familiar faces. Another showcase. From Thierry Henry (one of the earliest to arrive, engaging conversation with Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash, now star commentators for Amazon Prime) to Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli. Tony Parker, Pau Gasol (emotional and inspiring embrace with Santi Aldama) alongside Isiah Thomas. Footballers in the front row like Marcelo, Joao Pedro, Declan Rice, Virgil Van Dijk, Destiny Udogie...
The anthems, the concert by Flo (British girl band) at halftime, mascots descending from the ceiling, jerseys parachuting down, LED bracelets for each fan... All beautifully adorned by a string of sponsors. Tissot, Revolut, Balenciaga, Emirates, Foot Locker... and then the game.
In Berlin, where the local Franz Wagner made a comeback, the victory, including a comeback, went to the Magic (despite Aldama's four flawless three-pointers). They compete at the top of the East supported by the Wagner-Banchero duo. This time, the Grizzlies also started strong, riding on the bold Morant, who could soon be a trade target.
Aldama, who was doubtful due to physical problems, surprised by appearing in the starting lineup (only nine points and five rebounds this time), and before the first quarter ended, his team was up by 19 (38-19). A lead that increased in the second quarter (63-30), with the point guard and his dazzling sneakers spreading smiles, baskets, and provocations. To the point of having to clarify to the referees himself that his histrionic shouts were not against the opponent but for his teammates.
The lad, fond of displaying guns in inappropriate places and continuously sanctioned for his conflicts with friends and foes - the last time, in November, by his own team due to his inappropriate behavior - tested the Grizzlies' patience. He earns $40 million per season, and finding a trade for him has not been easy, even though there is no one like him in the entire NBA. The show of the show at the O2 Arena was Ja Morant, his magic, and his trashtalking. In the press room, he avoided getting into those rumors: "I am a loyal player. I've got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be," he confessed, referring to the Grizzlies tattoo on his back.
"Electric, fun for everyone," Jaren Jackson Jr. described him. "His energy is contagious. He did a great job quarterbacking the team — setting up other guys for success early in the game, pushing the pace, sharing the ball, which then snowballed into a great team effort also. I am super happy to see him again," his coach admitted later. Tuomas Iisalo got his star back, who has only played 19 games this season, and his Grizzlies are still in the playoff race in the West, where they are 10th. "With his dribbling and pace, he is a game-changer offensively. He gains advantages. And when this happens, we play very well as a team. He is very fast. And also very smart," he praised. "It has been great, special. It is very therapeutic for me to see the love of these people for the first time. It's about representing Memphis as best as possible," the star expressed.