NBA Games Make Thrilling Comeback to China After Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Controversy

The NBA is making a grand return to China this week, marking its first visit since 2019. The Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns are set to compete in two pre-season games at the Venetian resort in Macau. This is a significant moment, as it’s the first NBA event in Macau since 2007.

Back in 2019, the NBA faced a major setback when a Rockets manager voiced support for pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. This led to China suspending NBA broadcasts and effectively shutting the league out. During this time, tensions grew between the U.S. and China, especially around issues of free speech.

Recently, however, the relationship between the NBA and China has started to warm up again. The NBA has partnered with Alibaba, a major Chinese tech firm, to boost its presence in the country. Alibaba’s chair, Joseph Tsai, is also the owner of the Brooklyn Nets. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed optimism, noting the “tremendous interest” in basketball across China.

Basketball has a huge fan base in China, with an estimated 300 million players in 2019. The sport gained popularity largely due to Yao Ming, who was drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2002. A recent ESPN analysis valued the NBA’s operations in China at around $5 billion.

Fans in China are eagerly anticipating these games. Lyu Yizhe, a lifelong fan, shared his excitement, recalling fond memories of watching NBA legends like Michael Jordan. Another fan, Mole Zeng, expressed hope that more NBA stars would soon visit China, indicating the deep connection Chinese fans have with the league.

As the NBA continues its journey in China, it reflects a slow, positive change in relations, both in sports and beyond. For more detailed information on the historical context and evolving dynamics between the NBA and China, check out this BBC report.

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