The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 98–84 on Thursday evening (2 October) at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, kicking off the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ. The matchup marked the 76ers’ first-ever appearance in the region and gave fans an unforgettable evening of high-energy basketball.
Celebrities in attendance included Kiefer Sutherland, Steve Harvey, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Nadine Nassib Njeim, popular American YouTuber Jesser, and global streetball icon The Professor, among others. The event also featured entertainment performances during timeouts and halftime, highlighted by rapper Fat Joe.
The Knicks secured a strong first preseason win, led by Miles McBride with 12 points and Mitchell Robinson with 16 rebounds. Philadelphia was paced by 14 points each from Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe, the third overall pick in the most recent draft, who made his unofficial NBA debut.
Knicks head coach Mike Brown praised his team’s defensive progress, saying: “Just like I’m sure Philadelphia feels, we believe our ceiling is really high. It was the first time out there for both teams, but I’ve got to give our guys credit. As the game went along, we improved on the things we’ve been working on in training camp, The guys did a good job of helping and then recovering to their man.”
76ers head coach Nick Nurse spoke highly of rookie VJ Edgecombe following his NBA preseason debut: “I really liked his defense, especially in the first half. He’s a great athlete and was making things difficult — getting over screens, jumping into passing lanes, applying ball pressure. He even showed some defensive rebounding and shot-blocking ability. For a young player going up against experienced NBA guys, he took on the challenge and impressed me with his quickness and physicality.”
Edgecombe, who finished the game with 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists, reflected on his first appearance: “Overall, it’s a dream come true. First time on the floor, it felt good.”
The two teams will face off again on Saturday, 4 October at Etihad Arena. NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 presented by ADQ is part of the ongoing partnership between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the NBA.
