NBA London Game Briefly Interrupted During U.S. National Anthem
The atmosphere inside London’s O2 Arena was electric as fans from across the U.K. and Europe gathered for a rare NBA regular-season matchup.
The Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies were set to tip off, marking another step in the league’s ongoing effort to bring top-level basketball to an international audience.
Before the game began, the arena shifted into a more formal mood.
Award-winning singer Vanessa Williams stepped onto the court to perform the United States national anthem, a customary part of NBA pre-game ceremonies. The crowd quieted, and the performance began as expected.
Midway through the anthem, a single voice from the stands briefly broke the silence with a political remark referencing former U.S. President Donald Trump and earlier comments he had made about Greenland.
The unexpected interruption prompted mixed reactions from the crowd, with scattered boos and murmurs before the moment quickly passed.
Williams remained composed throughout, continuing her performance without hesitation.
When the anthem concluded, the arena responded with applause, acknowledging her professionalism and focus despite the distraction.
The comment echoed a broader political discussion that had circulated internationally in previous years, when Trump publicly floated the idea of U.S. interest in Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. European leaders had firmly rejected the suggestion at the time, emphasizing sovereignty and diplomatic norms.
Though unrelated to the event itself, the brief outburst highlighted how global political conversations can occasionally surface in unexpected settings.
Once the anthem ended, the arena’s attention returned to basketball. Fans quickly shifted their focus back to the court as the game got underway, with energy building through fast-paced play and crowd engagement.
🚨 ABUCHEAN AL HIMNO DE ESTADOS UNIDOS EN LONDRES
“DEJEN A GROENLANDIA EN PAZ”
Gritan los ingleses “Leave Greenland Alone” en un juego de basquet de la NBA que muestra el hartazgo ahora de los europeos en contra del cleptómano de Trump.
Por favor compartan este video antes… pic.twitter.com/obqLwCMra0
— La Catrina Norteña (@catrina_nortena) January 18, 2026
The Memphis Grizzlies ultimately secured a win over the Orlando Magic in a competitive contest that delivered the excitement fans had come to see.
The NBA has made it clear that games like this are part of a long-term international strategy.
League officials have indicated that future regular-season games may be hosted in additional European cities, expanding access for overseas fans eager to experience NBA action live.
While the brief interruption became a short-lived talking point, it did not overshadow the night. The event ultimately accomplished its goal—showcasing elite basketball, strengthening the NBA’s global reach, and reminding fans that, even when unexpected moments arise, the game itself remains the main attraction.
