Josh Giddey could suit up against his former NBL team after the Adelaide 36ers announced a pre-season tour to face NBA outfits Phoenix and Oklahoma City.
A former NBL rookie of the year with the 36ers, Giddey enjoyed a historic first season in the NBA with the Thunder, becoming the youngest to ever notch a triple double.
His rising side will host the 36ers at Paycom Center on October 6, with Adelaide first meeting the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on October 2 two years after NBL teams last toured.
The Suns have acquired former Melbourne United star Jock Landale and are also home to former Cairns and Brisbane import Torrey Craig.
“We are excited to welcome NBL teams back to the NBA pre-season,” NBA Asia vice-president of global partnerships Francesco Suarez said.
“As the popularity of basketball and the NBA continue to grow in Australia, having NBL teams participate in the pre-season is an important part of our year-round efforts to connect our passionate fans in Australia with their favorite teams and players.”
Adelaide owner Grant Kelley hopes the trip will “open doors” for his organization and roster.
“We are honored to participate in the upcoming NBA pre-season schedule for the third time, after previously playing the Utah Jazz in 2018 and 2019,” Kelley said.
“We always want to test ourselves against the best, and for basketball that is the NBA. This is a fantastic opportunity for the club both on and off the court.”
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