NBA's First Regular-Season Game in Germany: Magic vs. Grizzlies

The Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies are set to tip off the National Basketball Association's first regular-season game on German soil Thursday afternoon, facing each other at Berlin's Uber Arena in a matchup that highlights the league's growing international footprint. The game begins at 2 p.m. Eastern Time, drawing attention for Orlando's strong ties to the host country through its trio of German national team players.

Both teams enter the contest amid midseason challenges. The Magic hold a 22-18 record, placing them sixth in the Eastern Conference, where they have thrived at home with a 13-7 mark but seek consistency in close games. Orlando ranks 16th in offensive efficiency and 12th defensively, emphasizing interior play and rebounding under coach Jamahl Mosley. Key contributors include forward Paolo Banchero, the 2022-23 Rookie of the Year, who is regaining form after a groin injury, and guard Desmond Bane, averaging 19.2 points and 4.5 assists since his offseason trade from Memphis in a package involving Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and four first-round picks. Third-year guard Anthony Black has emerged as a breakout performer, scoring 26 points on 9-of-10 shooting in the...