Six football legends on the basketball court? Here’s why.
It’s all about you, the fans, this weekend as the second edition of NBA Fan Appreciation Day takes over Etihad Arena on Saturday, 5 October. The one-day event will see Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets players participate in a skills challenge and three-point contest. Also on the roster are appearances by NBA team mascots, a slam dunk contest featuring professional dunkers, prize giveaways, and even a live performance by American rapper 2 Chainz. But it’s the one-of-a-kind hybrid basketball and football game set to headline NBA Fan Appreciation Day that’s got sports fans absolutely buzzing.
Aptly dubbed the ‘Clash of the Legends’, the one-off event at Etihad Arena will see some of the greatest footballers of all time swap the pitch for the court in a thrilling 3×3 game that promises to be packed with excitement and friendly rivalries. Announced by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this unmissable spectacle will feature Brazilian sensation Roberto Carlos, Portuguese legend Luís Figo, and Spain’s star goalkeeper Iker Casillas bringing their best basketball and football moves to the court. They will be facing off against the Wizard Ronaldinho, masterful striker Thierry Henry, and Spain’s renowned centre-back Gerard Piqué.
I’m looking forward to competing against Ronaldinho, Thierry, and Gerard again,” said Casillas. “Fans remember the intense football matches we played back in the day and bringing that rivalry to the basketball court will be very special for everyone. I have the most experience using my hands, so hopefully that will translate to the court. Roberto will be our electric point guard, and Luís will shine in key moments.”
I think it’s going to be historic because, for the first time, we will face each other playing basketball,” added Piqué. “We’ve had many epic games on the pitch and reviving that rivalry on a basketball court will bring a lot of excitement and competition. I love the NBA and have been to many games. With Ronaldinho and Thierry on my team, we’ll bring the magic! I think we’ll put on a great show. NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi is all about highlighting the values of sport and giving fans who attend some unforgettable memories. We’ll give our best on the court.”
There’s plenty more basketball action taking place in Abu Dhabi this week. The popular NBA District will return to Manarat Al Saadiyat for the third consecutive year from 3 to 6 October, granting fans the opportunity to meet NBA icons, participate in basketball activities on a full-size NBA court, watch NBA highlights and programming, take a photo with the Larry O’Brien Trophy, purchase limited-edition NBA merchandise, and more. As for the basketball games themselves? The Celtics will take on the Nuggets on 4 and 6 October for two pre-season games, both taking centre stage at Etihad Arena. Tickets are available now via ticketmaster.ae.
DSCVR: NBA Fan Appreciation Day. Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. @nbaarabic @etihadarena.ae
