The NBA is making a significant return to China with preseason games in Macao, marking its first appearance in the country since 2019. The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns are set to play two exhibition matches, signaling a revival of the league’s presence in a region that boasts one of its largest fanbases. This comes after a period of strained relations following a controversial tweet by former Houston Rockets executive Daryl Morey in 2019, which led to China severing ties with the NBA. The league’s efforts to rebuild its relationship with China have been gradual but are now gaining momentum. NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum emphasized the importance of bringing live games to global fans, particularly in China, where over 300 million people play basketball. The games are seen as a bridge to reconnect with Chinese fans and strengthen the NBA’s global outreach. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade friction between the U.S. and China, the NBA views sports as a unifying force. Commissioner Adam Silver highlighted basketball’s unique ability to bring communities together, both domestically and internationally. The Nets and Suns will play at Macao’s Venetian Arena, owned by Las Vegas Sands Corp., with Sands President Patrick Dumont also serving as governor of the Dallas Mavericks. The Nets’ owner, Joe Tsai, chairman of Alibaba, and the presence of Chinese rookie Yang Hansen, drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers, further underscore the league’s commitment to the Chinese market. Yang expressed excitement about the NBA’s return, hoping to play in front of his home crowd in the future. The NBA’s influence in China is undeniable, with stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Victor Wembanyama drawing massive crowds during their visits. The league’s social media engagement in China has also surged, driven by the growing popularity of basketball. Suns guard Jared Butler described the trip as a bonding experience, reflecting the broader sentiment that these games are more than just exhibitions—they are a step toward rebuilding a vital relationship.
NBA returns to China for 1st time since a rift distanced it from one of the sport’s largest fanbases
