Overview
- Memphis defeated Orlando 126-109 at the O2 Arena, stretching the margin to as many as 33 points after a dominant early surge.
- Ja Morant returned from a calf issue after six games out and produced 24 points and 13 assists in 28 minutes.
- An announced crowd of 18,424 filled the arena with fans from dozens of countries, joined courtside by Thierry Henry, Tony Parker and Kimi Antonelli.
- Paolo Banchero addressed Italian fans at media day, saying he hopes to rebuild goodwill after choosing Team USA, while noting his support for AC Milan.
- League plans call for more European regular-season stops, with Manchester and Paris in 2027 and Berlin and Paris in 2028.