Basketball
NBA London: Memphis Grizzlies vs Orlando Magic Predictions
The NBA returns to London in a with a blockbuster matchup this weekend.
The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic collide at The O2 Arena in what promises to be one of the standout international showcases of the 2025-26 season.
This clash forms part of the league’s expanding European footprint, with the Grizzlies and Magic meeting in Berlin on January 15 before bringing their rivalry to the UK capital just days later. This London game will be the 10th regular-season NBA contest played in London and the 19th NBA game in the UK since 1993, underlining the city’s growing importance in the league’s global strategy.
For the Grizzlies, this marks a rare and high-profile opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage. Memphis enters the London contest looking to build momentum after mixed results domestically. They recently ended a tough stretch by edging the Brooklyn Nets 103-98, finishing strong with a 10-0 run that highlighted their resilience. However, inconsistency has been a theme for Memphis this season as they’ve dropped several games despite strong individual performances, including a tough loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder shortly before heading overseas.
The Grizzlies’ fortunes often hinge on star guard Ja Morant, whose explosive scoring and creative playmaking can flip a game in an instant. Alongside him, Jaren Jackson Jr. remains a defensive anchor and versatile scorer. Veterans like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and promising young players such as Cedric Coward and Santi Aldama round out a roster capable of big performances but still searching for consistent execution.
Orlando approaches London with its own blend of potential and unpredictability. The Magic have been up and down this season, fashioning a 7-6 stretch recently but unable to string together prolonged success. Their core is led by Paolo Banchero, the 2024 All-Star whose scoring and playmaking have become central to Orlando’s identity. The presence of German brothers Franz and Moritz Wagner adds versatility and experience, particularly as Franz works back from injury, a boost that could be significant come game day. Desmond Bane has also been a key contributor, providing perimeter scoring and secondary playmaking.
Historically, the matchup has favoured Memphis, as the Grizzlies hold the edge in their head-to-head series and won the last meeting 105-104 in February 2025. However, London’s neutral venue and the unique circumstances of international travel add unpredictable elements, from jet-lagged legs to electric atmospheres that could spur either squad.
Beyond the hardwood, the NBA is turning London into a two-way basketball celebration. Official fan events like NBA House, youth clinics, and community outreach programs will run throughout the weekend, amplifying the league’s cultural engagement in the city.
The Grizzlies vs Magic in London isn’t just a regular-season game, it’s a celebration of basketball’s global growth. With cores built around rising stars and explosive talent on both sides, this contest could very well come down to late-game execution and adaptability. For fans in London, this is a must-see event between two young, exciting squads and it will be fascinating to see who comes out on top.
