WATCH: Jaylen Brown’s electrifying dunk steals the show in UAE pre-season opener

The NBA returned to Abu Dhabi for the third consecutive year, kicking off the 2023-24 preseason with an exciting matchup between the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets. In front of an enthusiastic crowd, the Celtics edged out the Nuggets 107-103, but it was Jaylen Brown who stole the spotlight with a jaw-dropping dunk and show-stopping antics that left fans buzzing.

In a game where both teams showcased their depth, using a combined 36 players, Brown delivered the highlight of the night. His powerful dunk, executed as he drove through the lane, electrified the crowd. It was a defining moment that not only set the tone for the game but also demonstrated why Brown remains one of the most explosive players in the league.

Here is the video: 

JAYLEN BROWN FROM THE FREE-THROW LINE 😳 pic.twitter.com/UxZFYXqYmd

— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) October 4, 2024

While Brown’s dunk was the centerpiece, his connection with the local fans further cemented his impact. After the game, he addressed the crowd in Arabic, mixing his emotions with a few local phrases. The gesture won over the fans, adding a personal touch to an already captivating performance. His ability to engage with the audience on such a cultural level showcased his growing maturity as a global ambassador for the sport.

Payton leads the way for Celtics 

The Celtics rested many of their starters in the second half, including Brown, Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White, but Boston still managed to hold off Denver. Payton Pritchard led the Celtics with a game-high 21 points, while the reigning MVP Nikola Jokic scored 14 points for Denver before the team sat most of its starters after halftime.

This game marked the third straight year of NBA action in Abu Dhabi, a result of a deal signed in 2021 to bring preseason games to the Persian Gulf. Brown’s display not only highlights the Celtics' talent heading into the new season but also underscores the growing international appeal of the NBA, with players like him making significant cultural and sporting impacts on and off the court.