Sophie Goldschmidt, the NBA Europe vice-preisdent for marketing partnerships and business development, said: "We are thrilled with the enthusiasm London has shown for basketball.

 

“The NBA is committed to bringing more events to the U.K. and providing opportunities to grow the sport in Europe."

 

In addition to the on-court action at the O2 on October 12, basketball fans in London will have the opportunity to interact and compete at NBA Jam Van on August 1 at Trafalgar Square.

 

The NBA Jam Van is the free interactive basketball touring programme will reach more than a million basketball fans in cities throughout France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK.

 

NBA Europe Live 2008 will tip-off in Paris on October 9 when the Heat and the Nets face-off at the Palais Omnisports de Paris Bercy, followed by the London game at the O2.

 

With their sights set on London 2012, British Basketball will take center stage in September when Luol Deng and his GB teammates attempt to qualify for the 2009 EuroBasket Finals.

 

Britain ’s home campaign begins against the Czech Republic on September 6, at the O2 arena when they will make history by becoming the first British athletes to compete at the 2012 venue. 

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina await Great Britain in Birmingham four days later, before a match-up with Israel on September 13 at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.