The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi (DCT) have announced a star-studded lineup for the NBA Fan Appreciation Day, scheduled for October 5 at the Etihad Arena. The event will give fans the chance to interact with seven basketball legends, including Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Garnett, Derek Fisher, Muggsy Bogues, Mitch Richmond, Sylvia Fowles, and Marcus Camby.
Fan Activities and Engagement
The Fan Appreciation Day will kick off at 4:30 PM UAE time, offering a variety of on-court activities and fan experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the iconic NBA championship trophy, “The Larry O’Brien,” purchase and customize NBA merchandise, and even get a free haircut at the NBA barbershop.
A Star-Studded Lineup
The seven basketball icons attending the event boast impressive careers. Shaquille O’Neal and Kevin Garnett, both former NBA MVPs, along with WNBA MVP Sylvia Fowles, will headline the event. The lineup represents a mix of players who have made significant impacts in the NBA and WNBA.
NBA Abu Dhabi Games and Entertainment
The Fan Appreciation Day is part of the broader festivities surrounding the NBA Abu Dhabi games, where the reigning NBA champions, the Denver Nuggets, will face off against the Boston Celtics in two pre-season games on October 4 and 6. Rapper 2 Chainz will also be performing during the event and the games.
NBA District Returns
The NBA District, which has attracted over 10,000 visitors in the past two years, will officially open to the public on October 3 at 1 PM UAE time, providing more opportunities for basketball fans to engage with the NBA experience in Abu Dhabi.
