The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 kicked off with the Boston Celtics facing the Denver Nuggets in a preseason matchup on October 4, with a second game scheduled for October 6.

This event marks the NBA's third consecutive year returning to the Persian Gulf for preseason games, showcasing the league's growing international presence.

The matchup featured the two most recent championship teams, the Celtics and the Nuggets, highlighting their competitive rivalry.

The Celtics secured a 107-103 victory, with Payton Pritchard leading the way by scoring 14 points in the first half and showcasing his scoring versatility.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the team's struggles during the game, particularly in the opening quarter, but praised their defensive adjustments in the second half.

Despite trailing by seven points at halftime, the Celtics tightened their defense, allowing only 40 points in the second half to secure the win.

Mazzulla has not disclosed how much he will play his starters during the preseason, especially for players like Jayson Tatum, who recently participated in the Olympics.

Jaylen Brown expressed excitement about facing the Nuggets, praising their talented roster and coaching under Mike Malone.

The Celtics attempted 61 three-pointers during the game, making 20 of them for a shooting percentage of 32.8%, with significant contributions from their second unit.

The team is facing challenges due to a 13-hour flight and an eight-hour time-zone difference, which could impact player performance.

Amidst the excitement of the games, the NBA has been urged to develop a human rights risk mitigation strategy and to address concerns regarding the UAE's human rights record.

Nikola Jokic posed a significant challenge for the Celtics, demonstrating his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.