Rockets and Mavericks Conclude Macao Preseason Series

Houston and Dallas split a pair of preseason contests during an international trip held in October 2026.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Basketball

Rockets and Mavericks Conclude Macao Preseason Series

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The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks traveled to Macao in October 2026 to compete in a two-game preseason basketball series. The teams split the matchups, with Houston winning the first game and Dallas securing the second.

Why it matters

The international trip functioned as a bonding experience for the Houston roster while providing valuable competitive repetitions. The games highlighted the development of key personnel, including forward Jabari Smith Jr., as the team prepares for the upcoming season.

During the Macao trip, Jabari Smith Jr. averaged 13.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. This followed his 2025-26 campaign where he posted averages of 15.8 points and 6.9 rebounds over 77 games.

The players

Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets are a professional NBA team based in Texas that plays in the Western Conference.

Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are a professional NBA franchise based in Texas that competes in the Western Conference.

Jabari Smith Jr.

Jabari Smith Jr. is a professional basketball player currently serving as the starting power forward for the Houston Rockets.

The details

Beyond the on-court competition, players participated in various community engagement events and local exploration activities throughout their time in Macao. Jabari Smith Jr., who was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, is currently under contract with the Houston Rockets through 2030.

October 2026: The Rockets and Mavericks played two games in Macao.
2030: Jabari Smith Jr. is scheduled to complete his current contract.

Season Trajectory

The Macao preseason series follows the pattern set by the NBA's global games strategy to build international engagement. This trip helps establish international brand identity while allowing rosters to finalize chemistry before the long regular season schedule.

Jabari Smith Jr. is expected to remain the starting power forward for the Houston Rockets, a role supported by his strong playoff performance of 17.5 points and 8.5 rebounds against the Los Angeles Lakers. This consistent production suggests he remains a focal point for the team as they look toward the 2027 season.

The takeaway

Preseason international trips serve as both a marketing tool for global expansion and a practical training ground for team chemistry. For fans, these early-season performances offer an initial look at how rising players like Jabari Smith Jr. are integrating into their team's long-term offensive schemes.