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Isiah Thomas, DeMarcus Cousins set for Delhi visit during NBA Playoffs
The Times Of India | March 23, 2026 3:39 PM CST

New Delhi: Two of the NBA’s biggest names - two-time champion Isiah Thomas and four-time All-Star DeMarcus Cousins - are set to headline a fan event in the capital during the 2026 NBA Playoffs, offering Indian fans a rare chance to interact with global basketball icons.

Thomas, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, was the architect of the Detroit Pistons' 'Bad Boys' era, leading them to back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990. A 12-time All-Star and a Hall of Famer, he built his legacy on leadership, clutch performances and fierce competitiveness.

Cousins, among the most dominant big men of his generation, made four All-Star appearances and established himself as a versatile force with his scoring, rebounding and playmaking. The former Sacramento Kings star was one of the league’s most impactful centers through the 2010s.

Their visit will form part of a two-day NBA fan engagement event in New Delhi on May 9 and 10 at Bharat Mandapam, built around the ongoing playoffs. Alongside fan interactions with the visiting stars, the event will feature on-court activities, a 3-on-3 celebrity game, streetwear showcases and live performances.

Fans will also have access to workshops and panel discussions, opportunities to pose with the Larry O'Brien Trophy, and entertainment segments featuring the Kings’ mascot Slamson, dance team and dunk unit - the same franchise that played in the NBA’s first games in India in 2019 and returns for the second straight year.

"Hosting BUDX NBA House in New Delhi for the first time marks an exciting next step in our continued efforts to engage fans across India in new and creative ways," said Rajah Chaudhry , NBA India country head. "We look forward to returning with an expanded edition where fans can come together to celebrate the excitement of the NBA Playoffs and meet legends of the game."

The event builds on last year’s Mumbai debut and is part of the NBA’s broader push to deepen its connect with fans in India.

For many, though, the spotlight will remain firmly on Thomas and Cousins — two stars from different eras, now set to share the same stage in Delhi.


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