For the first time since 2019, the NBA is poised to reconnect with its Chinese audience through two preseason games featuring the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns. This resumption marks a significant milestone in mending the strained relationship between the league and China, following a fallout over social media remarks supporting Hong Kong protests.
A contentious incident in October 2019, involving a tweet by former Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong protests, led to a major rift between the NBA and China. The situation escalated when the NBA, under commissioner Adam Silver, defended freedom of expression, resulting in the loss of lucrative sponsorships and the removal of NBA games from Chinese broadcast television, costing the league millions.
However, efforts to rebuild this relationship have been underway, largely due to the involvement of NBA China CEO Michael Ma, appointed in 2020. His role has been pivotal in fostering dialogue and cooperation, gradually improving relations over the past few years. The upcoming preseason games in Macao are a testament to these efforts.
The games are scheduled to take place at the Venetian Arena, a venue with historical significance, having hosted NBA games before. The arena is part of the Las Vegas Sands conglomerate, owned by the Adelson family, who also hold majority ownership of the Dallas Mavericks. Patrick Dumont, the COO and president of Las Vegas Sands, has been instrumental in the new partnership that facilitated this event.
As part of this renewed engagement in Macao, the NBA is launching youth development programs and social initiatives aimed at promoting basketball and its values among young people. This program not only signifies the league’s commitment to fostering goodwill but also aims to bolster its fan base in a region where basketball already enjoys immense popularity.
The NBA’s return to China underscores a significant reconciliation phase. Historically, between 2004 and 2019, China hosted 17 NBA teams for 28 preseason games, demonstrating the league’s long-standing appeal. The upcoming events highlight a cautious yet promising renewal of this sports diplomacy.
The NBA’s forthcoming preseason games in Macao signify a hopeful step forward in restoring its relationship with China. This initiative reflects both the league’s strategic vision and its commitment to global outreach, indicating a positive trajectory for future engagements.
Source: ESPN
