Historic NBA Regular Season Debut in Berlin Sees Orlando Magic Triumph

Germany hosted its first-ever NBA regular season game on January 15, 2026, as the Orlando Magic faced off against the Memphis Grizzlies at a packed Berlin arena, attended by 13,738 fans. The game was a landmark event for German basketball and the NBA's expansion into Europe, highlighted by strong German representation and notable celebrity attendance.

The Orlando Magic, featuring German players Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, and Tristan da Silva, secured a thrilling 118-111 victory despite a 20-point halftime deficit. Franz Wagner led his team with 18 points, while Moritz contributed 7 points in what marked his return from a knee injury. Franz returned to play after an ankle sprain and energized the crowd, rallying with five crucial points late in the game. The Magic’s sensational second-half comeback against the Grizzlies showcased resilience and skill, culminating in an exciting dunk by Anthony Black to seal the win.

The event also drew wide attention for its cultural significance. German rapper Luciano performed during halftime, while national anthems were sung by acclaimed artists Malou Lovis and Melody Thornton. The arena featured prominent sports figures, including basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki and German football stars Mats Hummels and Thomas Müller. Also present was Björn Gulden, CEO of Adidas, highlighting the intersection of sports and business; Adidas recently became a sponsor of the German national basketball team.

Beyond the game, the NBA is actively looking to grow its European footprint with plans for an NBA Europe league, already garnering investor interest and scheduled meetings, aiming to capitalize on basketball’s status as the continent’s second most popular sport.

The game was broadcast live on Amazon Prime, offering fans the chance to witness this historic moment. With high ticket demand and a follow-up NBA game planned in Berlin for 2028, the NBA’s German debut marks a key step in the league’s global expansion strategy.

Franz Wagner expressed excitement before tip-off, saying, "We still can't believe we are here. Make some noise today," capturing the historic significance for Germany’s basketball community.