The NBA is looking towards its future with hopes of reentering China after experiencing tension due to Hong Kong democracy protests five years ago. These events resulted in a fallout between them and Chinese broadcasters which caused its presence to cease being one of its most lucrative markets.
Adam Silver’s Positive Outlook on the Return to China
Adam Silver made an optimistic speech at Columbia University Sports Management Conference in New York regarding resumption of NBA games in China. Although broadcasting had previously stopped due to political disputes, Silver remains committed to free speech and sees an opportunity moving forward.
The initial controversy began in 2019 with a tweet from Daryl Morey, then-general manager of the Houston Rockets, supporting Hong Kong’s anti-government protests. This led to a significant backlash within China, exacerbated by Chinese officials’ demands, as reported by Silver, for Morey’s firing following his support for Hong Kong.
Financial Impact and Signs of Recovery
In response to the controversy, China ceased broadcasting two preseason games between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets, leading to a withdrawal of corporate sponsors and financial losses in the hundreds of millions for the NBA. However, a potential thaw was signaled in March 2022 when CCTV, the Chinese state broadcaster, ended an 18-month hiatus of NBA coverage. Further optimism was sparked by Jimmy Butler, a six-time All-Star, who visited China in the summer of 2023.
Expanding the NBA’s International Reach
As part of its global outreach strategy, the NBA has increased its global outreach, scheduling preseason games in Abu Dhabi and regular-season contests in Mexico City and Paris – thus expanding their global influence which may prove pivotal in reentering China market.
The NBA’s possible return to China marks an historic development for international basketball. As its global presence expands, however, they will face both challenges and opportunities when trying to reintegrate themselves back into Chinese sports culture.