The NBA is finalizing plans for the Grizzlies to play two preseason games in Europe before the start of the 2003-04 season, according to league sources.

Bolstered by the presence of Spanish forward Pau Gasol, the Griz are expected to face F.C. Barcelona (Gasol's former team) in Spain. The Grizzlies also will meet Tony Parker and the San Antonio Spurs in France.

It is expected that the early October trip would last at least five days. An announcement is expected before the end of the NBA playoffs.

"I think it's great," Gasol said near the end of the season when asked about the prospect of playing in Spain. "Playing in the NBA was a dream. But playing an NBA game at home is something I never thought about."