On November 12, 2023, Emirates flew the NBA Cup trophy from Dubai to New York City, marking the official start of the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup tournament. Emirates, as the Official Global Airline Partner and the inaugural title sponsor of the Emirates NBA Cup, celebrated the trophy’s journey on its A380 aircraft, outfitted in eye-catching NBA-themed livery featuring a bold blue fuselage and vibrant red engine cowls.
NBA legend James Worthy accompanied the trophy on its journey across the Atlantic. Upon arrival in New York, the trophy was officially presented to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and Emirates Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations, West, Thierry Aucoc, signaling the beginning of the tournament that will conclude with the Championship game in Las Vegas on December 17, 2023.
A Unique Basketball-Themed Flight Experience for Passengers
The airline designed a unique in-flight experience for travelers on this special flight, setting a lively basketball-themed ambiance across all cabin classes. Passengers enjoyed themed meals, served in NBA-branded boxes, while classic NBA games played on the airline’s in-flight entertainment system, ice. For added excitement, select live games from the Emirates NBA Cup will also stream throughout the tournament.
The Onboard Lounge offered an elevated experience to First and Business Class travelers, who could meet NBA legend James Worthy while enjoying game-day snacks. The menu included fan favorites such as sliders, pizzas, pretzels with cheese, popcorn, and a variety of pastries, all themed for the NBA. Worthy also delivered a special PA announcement, further enhancing the memorable flight.
Each passenger on this notable flight received exclusive NBA memorabilia, including replica A380 models in the NBA livery, NBA-themed polaroid photo frames, luggage tags, and other keepsakes to commemorate the journey.
Emirates Introduces NBA Experiences on Select Flights and Lounges
From now through December 17, Emirates passengers traveling between the United States, Canada, and Dubai can enjoy NBA-inspired offerings across 13 routes. Themed amenities extend across all cabins, with co-branded headrests in Premium Economy and Economy Class, and custom coasters available in Business Class and Premium Economy. Passengers can choose from NBA-inspired food and drink selections, while the ice entertainment system streams select NBA Cup games live and features content spotlighting NBA icons and an interview podcast with NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum.
Additionally, Emirates lounges in cities including Dubai, New York JFK, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Boston are presenting NBA-inspired menu items, available through November 22. Special NBA-themed merchandise, like limited-edition replica models of the A380 in its new NBA livery, is available for fans at the Emirates Official Store.
As the Emirates NBA Cup tournament continues, more exciting games are scheduled, including group matches between the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers, and the Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors, both airing on ESPN.
