Football icons Figo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos, Iker Casillas, Thierry Henry, and Gerard Piqué join award-winning rapper 2 Chainz for an unforgettable event
NBA legends make special on-court appearances as part of the annual NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 festivities
Abu Dhabi, UAE; October 6, 2024 – An exciting fusion of football and basketball legends lit up the Etihad Arena on Yas Island on Saturday during the NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi. The highlight of the evening was the exhilarating ‘Clash of the Legends,’ featuring Luís Figo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos, and other soccer stars showcasing their skills on the court in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
The NBA Fan Appreciation Day offered fans a thrilling lineup of entertainment. The event featured a friendly football-basketball hybrid match where football greats Figo, Iker Casillas, and Roberto Carlos faced off against Ronaldinho, Thierry Henry, and Gerard Piqué, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. In a post-event interview, Portuguese legend Figo commended Abu Dhabi’s evolution into a premier global sports destination.
“Abu Dhabi has developed significantly since my first visit,” said Figo, who first came to the Emirates in 2001. “It’s gratifying to see sports and entertainment becoming key attractions here. The combination of these elements creates a fantastic experience, and I truly appreciate the local government’s investment in this sector. The way they blend sports and entertainment is remarkable – especially when experienced live.”
Figo noted the UAE’s impressive growth over the years, particularly in its infrastructure and event-hosting capabilities. He acknowledged Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the sports industry and its ambition to be a leading destination for world-class sporting events. He added, “Every time I come here, it feels like home.”
The NBA Appreciation Day also included a special performance by award-winning rapper 2 Chainz, enhancing the evening’s entertainment. Stars from the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets, who will meet on the court again on Sunday for the second of two games, mingled with fans alongside NBA legends such as Kevin Garnett, Mitch Richmond, Muggsy Bogues, Marcus Camby, and four-time Olympic gold medallist Sylvia Fowles of the WNBA.
Basketball fans enjoyed a variety of on-court activities, including a skills challenge, a three-point contest, and a thrilling slam dunk competition featuring professional dunkers. The Celtics and Nuggets mascots kept the energy high throughout the event.
With its perfect blend of high-profile basketball action, football legends, and live music, NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi showcased the capital’s growing reputation as a global hub for major sporting events.