Sun Oct 05 05:10:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

The New Orleans Pelicans have made history by traveling to Australia for two preseason games against NBL teams, Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix. This marks the first time an NBA team has played in Australia. The trip is seen as a bonding opportunity for the team, a chance to connect with Australian fans, and a personal travel experience for the players. The games are part of a broader NBA initiative to hold preseason games internationally, with other games taking place in Abu Dhabi, Puerto Rico, Macao, and various U.S. cities without NBA teams.

**News Article:**

**Pelicans Make History as First NBA Team to Play in Australia**

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The New Orleans Pelicans have landed Down Under, making history as the first NBA team to ever play in Australia. The Pelicans will face off against Melbourne United on Friday and the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Sunday in a pair of preseason games.

“This is a great bonding opportunity for all of our guys,” said Pelicans coach Willie Green. “We’re excited about interacting with the fans in Australia.”

The trip is more than just basketball. The Pelicans have planned a series of fan engagement activities, including open practices and a Junior NBA clinic. Hall of Famers Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett are also scheduled to appear at the games.

Forward Trey Murphy, returning from an injury, expressed his excitement about the trip, stating, “I’ve never been to Australia before, so this is a personal bucket list travel experience.”

The games are part of a broader NBA effort to expand its global reach, with preseason games also scheduled in Abu Dhabi, Puerto Rico, and Macao. This marks the league’s return to China since 2019.

The Pelicans hope the trip will not only create lasting memories but also help them build momentum for the upcoming season.

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