NBA House Australia Debuts in Melbourne as DeMarcus Cousins Praises Aussie NBA Stars and the Power of Basketball
Melbourne has officially become the centre of the basketball world this week, with four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins touching down for the debut of NBA House Australia — an immersive fan experience bringing the energy of the NBA Playoffs directly to Australian fans for the very first time.
Taking over The Timber Yard from May 14–17, NBA House Australia is set to deliver four days of basketball, celebrity appearances, live entertainment and interactive fan experiences in celebration of the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
The massive 6,000-square-metre activation will feature live NBA Playoff screenings, on-court basketball activities, streetwear showcases, live music, meet-and-greets and photo opportunities with the iconic Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Fans can also expect high-energy performances from the Sacramento Kings Dunk Team, Kings Dancers and crowd-favourite mascot Slamson, bringing an authentic NBA game-day atmosphere to Melbourne.
Saturday night is already tipped to be one of the hottest tickets in the city, with a celebrity basketball game featuring Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios, comedian Tommy Little and social media personality Jaden Laing, with more celebrity names expected to be announced soon.
Speaking during the Melbourne media call, Cousins said the event was designed to unite fans through the love of basketball.
“This event will do wonders for Australia. It’s an event for the fans, it’s a place to come in, enjoy the vibe, enjoy the environment,” Cousins said.
“The NBA does a great job of putting these events together. It’s the game of basketball — that’s what it does, it brings people together. We want it to spread the love of the game. So come down fans, bring the kids, come burn some energy and be around some big-name players.”
Cousins also took time to praise Australia’s growing impact on the NBA, singling out rising stars Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels for their performances in the league.
“Josh Giddey and Dyson Daniels are having a huge impact in this league — very huge futures for both these guys,” he said.
“What Dyson does on the defensive side of the ball, he’s already carved out his nature in this league. Everything else is just a plus. He’s a dynamic defender. Every team wants a player like that.”
The former NBA star also spoke emotionally on the passing of former NBA players Jason Collins and Brandon Clarke.
“I got to play against Collins, he was a bruiser. He helped introduce me to the league,” Cousins reflected.
“I got to spend time with his brother at Golden State, he was one of my coaches. Both guys are part of the NBA family.”
“I didn’t have much to do with Brandon, but it’s an unfortunate loss for everybody. I send my condolences to their families and friends and I pray for them.”
Joining Cousins in Melbourne is two-time NBA All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr., who is also headlining the landmark Australian event.
NBA House Australia marks the first time the global fan experience has been staged in Australia, following successful editions in Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Japan, Mexico, the UK and the United States.
By Melinda Sullivan.
Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster, with strong demand expected across the four-day event.
