NBAxNBL: Frequently asked questions for attendees

History will be made tonight when the New Orleans Pelicans take on Melbourne United and the South East Melbourne Phoenix on October 3 and 5 at Rod Laver Arena.

The games will coincide with some memorable experiences and events, celebrating the first time an NBA team has played on Australian soil.

‍What events can I attend?
- Fan Zone (Bounce Nation) - Thursday, October 2 to Sunday, October 5 at Rod Laver Arena.
- Fan Night – Saturday, October 4, 2025, 6pm AEST: A showcase event with player performances, basketball challenges, live entertainment and more.
- Southern Tip-Off Louisiana Luncheon – Sunday, October 5, 2pm AEDT: An exclusive lunch at Centrepiece, while listening to two-time NBA Champion and ten-time All-Star Ray Allen, 15-time All-Star Kevin Garnett, six-time NBL MVP Andrew Gaze, and Olympic silver medallist Michele Timms.

>> CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS TO ALL EVENTS

Who's playing who?
‍- Game 1 – New Orleans Pelicans vs Melbourne United - Friday, October 3, 2025 - 7.30pm AEST.
- Game 2 – New Orleans Pelicans vs South East Melbourne Phoenix - Sunday, October 5, 2025 - 2pm AEDT.

Where are the games being played?
Both games will take place at Melbourne Park (Rod Laver Arena), Melbourne, Victoria.

When do doors open? When should I arrive?
Ticketholders are advised to arrive early to avoid queues.
- Game 1 - Friday, October 3: Doors open 5.30pm AEST (7.30pm tip-off).
- Fan Night - Saturday, October 4: Doors open 4pm AEST (6pm start).
- Game 2 - Sunday, October 5: Doors open 12pm AEDT (2pm tip-off).

Can I bring a bag?
Please avoid bringing bags or water bottles to avoid queues (bags larger than A4 not permitted).

Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets for all events are sold via Ticketek.com.au.

Are there any tickets left?
Limited tickets remain for all events, with fans encouraged to get in quick to avoid disappointment.

Will I get my tickets immediately after purchase?
You will receive immediate confirmation via email once your order has been completed. Once purchased, you will also be able to view your ticket(s) in the relevant ticket agent app.

Are there premium experience/hospitality packages available?
Courtside seating is available for purchase via Ticketek, and includes the following:
- Unmatched views from the best seats in the house — right on the court.
- Premium food and beverage package.
- Exclusive access to a VIP Lounge — an elevated game-day experience.

For further information and enquiries, please contact events@nbl.com.au.

How do I purchase accessible seating?
Available seating types can include wheelchair, vision impaired, hearing impaired, easy access, companion card.

Simply click on the Accessible filter to view the Accessible Ticketing types available for the event. If this option is not available, please call 1300 665 915 or submit an Accessible Ticket booking form.

Click here for more information and how-to guides for Ticketek.

For more information on accessibility for Rod Laver Arena please visit Accessibility - Rod Laver Arena.

Do you accept companion cards?
If you hold a government issued Companion Card, you may be eligible for a complimentary ticket for your companion to assist you in attending the event (subject to availability). Please note a full-priced ticket must be selected when redeeming a Companion Card ticket.

Please follow the same steps outlined in the above Accessible Seating information to secure your tickets and ensure you have your Companion Card at match for sighting by venue staff.

Rod Laver Arena venue information
For all your information for planning your visit to Rod Laver Arena, including travel information, parking, accessibility, venue maps, FAQs etc, please visit Plan Your Visit - Rod Laver Arena.‍

What does the Fan Night entail?
Fan night brings the NBA All-Star vibes to Melbourne! Featuring the Pelicans, Melbourne United, and SEM Phoenix, this high-energy event delivers skills challenges, a three-point contest, live performances, and more.

With entertainment on and off the court, it's an unforgettable, family-friendly celebration of basketball for fans of all ages.

>> CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

How do I visit the Fan Zone?
Get ready for a free, family-friendly festival of basketball where the action doesn’t stop on the court! Bounce Nation is your chance to dive into the culture of the game with star appearances, live clinics, and player signings. All in the heart of Melbourne Park!

>> CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION & FULL SCHEDULE

Which NBA stars will be in action?
Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Jordan Poole are among the NBA stars in action for the New Orleans Pelicans. Dejounte Murray didn't make the trip due to injury.

>> CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL PREVIEW