NBA official cites infrastructure needs for Brazil games

NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum stated that Brazil lacks the world-class indoor arena infrastructure required to host league games. While the NBA values the Brazilian market and considers it for international games, the absence of elite venues in cities like São Paulo prevents the league from delivering the same experience provided in the United States and Europe.

Tatum noted that while the league has hosted preseason games in Rio de Janeiro between 2013 and 2015, future expansion into the country depends on improved infrastructure. Currently, Mexico City is the only South American location to have hosted official NBA games.