The NBA’s Return to China
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is set to make a highly anticipated return to China with a pair of pre-season games featuring the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns. This marks the league’s first venture into the Chinese market since 2019, concluding a six-year hiatus that stemmed from tensions related to political unrest in Hong Kong. The matches in Macau will occur at The Venetian Arena, a venue situated near the controversial region of Hong Kong, underscoring its strategic significance for the NBA.
Background of NBA-China Relations
The relationship between the NBA and China soured following a tweet from Daryl Morey, who was the general manager of the Houston Rockets at the time. In support of the pro-democracy protests occurring in Hong Kong, Morey tweeted
“Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong,”
a message that led to severe pushback from Chinese authorities, resulting in the suspension of NBA broadcasts and partnerships in the country.
Strategic Collaborations and Historical Significance
To regain its foothold, the NBA recently established a multi-year collaboration with the Chinese technology firm Alibaba, aiming to utilize artificial intelligence to enhance interaction with fans. Notably, Joseph Tsai, the owner of the Brooklyn Nets, is also a prominent figure in Alibaba’s leadership, further intertwining the interests of both entities.
Historically, the NBA’s presence in China has been significant, largely influenced by the remarkable career of Yao Ming. The towering center, who played for the Houston Rockets from 2002 to 2009, played a crucial role in popularizing basketball in the country. Today, approximately 300 million Chinese citizens are engaged in the sport, positioning basketball as a central part of the country’s sporting culture.
Looking Ahead
Adam Silver, the NBA commissioner, expressed optimism about the league’s revival in China, stating,
“We are experiencing as great enthusiasm for the game as we ever have in China.”
The resurgence of NBA games on Chinese state television is expected to further enhance the league’s standing in a market projected to generate revenue exceeding $5 billion for NBA China, according to ESPN.
Suns guard Devin Booker emphasized the importance of international engagement, noting the significance of allowing fans to experience live games in their homeland. As the NBA works to rebuild relationships and rekindle excitement, the upcoming games in Macau signify an important step in mending ties with one of its largest fan bases.
