Pelicans Shine in Historic NBAxNBL Clash, Defeating Melbourne United 107-97

The inaugural game of the NBAxNBL: Melbourne Series drew a full house of nearly 15,000 spectators, featuring courtside appearances by Kevin Garnett. The New Orleans Pelicans emerged victorious against the tenacious Melbourne United, securing a 107-97 win at Rod Laver Arena on Friday.

After establishing a comfortable 16-point lead, the NBA team had to fend off a resilient challenge from Melbourne. Zion Williamson led the charge, contributing 15 points and five assists, while Trey Murphy III was the team’s leading scorer with 18 points. Croatian player Karlo Matkovic also made his mark with six points, four rebounds, one block, one steal, and one assist. On the opposing side, Milton Doyle shone with a game-high 25 points.

Opening the 2025 NBA preseason schedule at Etihad Arena, the New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 99-84. French player Pacome Dadiet started for Mike Brown’s team, recording four points and two rebounds. His fellow French imports, Guerschon Yabusele and Mohamed Diawara, did not manage to score off the bench, while German Ariel Hukporti and Ukrainian Alex Len contributed six and five points, respectively. Turkish Adem Bona had a quiet game with four points.

Preseason activities are set to continue over the coming days, with more teams from North America joining in. Notably, the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns will face off in Palm Desert on Friday. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will remain in Melbourne to take on the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Saturday, mirroring the rematch between the Knicks and 76ers scheduled in Abu Dhabi.

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