NBA: New York Knicks to face Detroit Pistons in London

The NBA will return to London in January, with the Detroit Pistons taking on the New York Knicks at the O2 arena.

Three-time champions Detroit Pistons and the two-time champion New York Knicks will mark the NBA’s second trip in three seasons the capital.

The Toronto Raptors and the New Jersey (now Brooklyn) Nets played a pair of games, while last year’s scheduled match-ups between the Orlando Magic and the Nets fell victim to the NBA lockout.

“London was the epicentre of global sports this summer, and the Olympics were a tremendous showcase for basketball,” said NBA Commissioner David Stern.

“Playing our third regular-season game in the city in three years and having historic franchises like the Knicks and Pistons serve as our ambassadors provide extraordinary opportunities to further the game’s growth and development in the UK and throughout Europe.”

“The Pistons are excited to participate in the NBA London Live 2013,” said Dennis Mannion, President and CEO of Palace Sports & Entertainment and the Detroit Pistons.

“Playing a regular-season game in London against the New York Knicks will provide a great experience for our players and we look forward to showcasing our brand of Hard, Smart and Together Detroit Basketball to fans on a global scale.”

“I am excited to show our great fans in London what New York basketball is about,” said New York Knicks head coach Mike Woodson.

“For Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler to return to the city where they helped Team USA win the Gold makes it even more special for our team.”

Tickets will go on sale on Oct. 30 at www.theo2.co.uk