Pelicans Make History with Win in Melbourne Exhibition Game

Melbourne, Australia — The New Orleans Pelicans made history on Friday by becoming the first NBA team to play a game in Australia, winning their preseason opener against Melbourne United 107-97. The game took place at Rod Laver Arena, where Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy led the Pelicans in scoring.

Williamson scored 15 points and recorded five steals, while Murphy added 18 points. The duo set the tone early, with Williamson assisting Murphy for the first basket of the game. ‘It was electric,’ Pelicans coach Willie Green said, reflecting on the engaged fans in attendance. ‘This was a really great platform to come here and play high-level competition.’

Jordan Poole, in his Pelicans’ debut, contributed 11 points along with four rebounds and four assists. Other notable scorers included Jose Alvarado and Jordan Hawkins, who also added 11 points each. Bryce McGowens chipped in with 10 points. Overall, six Pelicans scored in double figures against Melbourne, who competes in Australia’s National Basketball League.

Green was pleased with the performance, especially highlighting Williamson’s defensive intensity and fast-break play. ‘He makes plays for his teammates and for himself,’ he noted. The Pelicans’ starting lineup featured three newcomers brought in by new executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars.

Despite the win, the Pelicans were narrowly edged out in rebounding, as Melbourne secured 60 boards to New Orleans’ 57. Herb Jones did not play due to a left ankle sprain, and Green said his availability for the next game is uncertain.

The Pelicans will face the South East Melbourne Phoenix in the second of their two exhibition games in Australia, set for Sunday at 10 p.m. Saturday Central time. Following their time down under, they will return to the United States for their final preseason games against the Houston Rockets and the Orlando Magic.

‘I didn’t know we had this many fans in Australia, and I didn’t know how much they loved basketball here,’ Murphy said. ‘It’s really a blessing.’