From the moment NBA side New Orleans began their trip to Australia on a chartered plane, NBL owner Larry Kestelman , the league and Australian officials began their charm offensive.

Toy koalas on pillows, 24/7 player concierge services and advice about Melbourne’s best laneways – it’s all part of the service that “Team Victoria” is providing for the visitors.

The objective? To get more NBA teams, traditionally reluctant to venture as far as these shores from America, to make the trip Down Under.

The NBL will host the first-ever NBA games in Australia this week when Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix take on the visiting Pelicans in two pre-season games at Rod Laver Arena on Friday night and Sunday.

Until now, Australia has never been close to having an NBA team visit.

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