NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has recently stated that the league could return to China for games, despite strained relations since 2019. These tensions began when former Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey expressed support for pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, leading to a significant backlash in China, including an 18-month ban on NBA broadcasts by Chinese state media. However, Silver believes that the situation has improved, and that the league’s return to the Chinese market is likely “at some point.”
The NBA had previously been a significant presence in China, with its popularity in the country contributing substantially to the league’s global reach. Silver acknowledged that the fallout from the 2019 controversy had a “dramatic” financial impact, as the Chinese market represented a crucial revenue stream. At the same time, the pandemic further disrupted any potential NBA-China events, halting the league’s regular “Global Games” series.
Silver’s comments reflect optimism about the future of the NBA’s relationship with China, and the league’s possible return for exhibition or preseason games. He emphasized the importance of standing by the league’s values, especially regarding the freedom of expression for players and executives. Despite the financial losses, Silver maintained that the NBA will not shy away from such principles.
The NBA’s last games in China were in October 2019, when the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers played preseason games. While the political tension over Hong Kong created challenges, the growing enthusiasm for basketball in China has not diminished, making it likely that a return could be beneficial for both sides. As of now, no official dates or games have been announced, but Silver’s statement indicates that the league is considering its return to the world’s most populous nation.
Given the global nature of the NBA’s business, the potential for games in China aligns with the league’s strategy to expand its brand and fanbase worldwide. This approach includes preseason games in other international locations, such as Japan, Mexico, and Abu Dhabi, making a return to China a logical next step as diplomatic and commercial ties normalize.
Silver’s remarks are a hopeful sign for both the league and its fans in China, where the sport remains incredibly popular despite the diplomatic hurdles of the past few years. With tensions easing and commercial ties being restored, the NBA seems poised to resume its international presence in China, bringing back one of its most lucrative global markets.
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