NEW YORK — The NBA preseason has once again expanded beyond the traditional concept of teams simply playing nearby basketball games, with clubs scheduled for stops in Québec City, Honolulu, Macao, Vancouver and several other locations requiring actual travel planning.
Players initially believed training camp would involve practice.
Then someone handed them passports.
The league says the international schedule helps grow basketball globally and bring NBA teams to fans who do not regularly see them in person.
Players mostly want to know what time zone they are in.
Several teams have already begun packing for trips that combine preseason basketball, promotional appearances, long flights and the unique experience of trying to install a new offense while severely jet-lagged.
One fictional assistant coach described the schedule as “basketball with customs.”
Veterans immediately checked whether their passports were current.
Rookies asked whether Global Entry counts as a team benefit.
Coaches have also adjusted practice plans around travel days, airport transfers and the possibility that half the roster will wake up believing it is 3 a.m.
The preseason traditionally exists to prepare players for the regular season.
This year, it may also prepare them for international diplomacy.
By opening night, every team hopes to know its rotation.
Several would also like to know what country they are in.
