NBA, China, and the Hong Kong “turf” feud
Picture this: the Chinese state press throws a verbal punch at the NBA, calling it a “sponsor of violence” while muttering about a “secessionist pipe dream.” The drama follows a single tweet from Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey supporting the Hong Kong protests—an act that sparked a wildfire of backlash across the Chinese sporting and corporate world.
Quick recap of the showdown
- Morey’s post: A short, spirited tweet backing the Hong Kong demonstrators, which was deleted almost instantly. The moment, however, became a public relations fiasco.
- NBA’s initial reaction: The league called the uproar “regrettable,” but later clarified that it was not their place to police what players, staff, or owners say.
- Commissioner Adam Silver’s stance: In a Japan news press, he emphasized that the NBA’s role is not to regulate every comment, pegging the responsibility to the individuals themselves.
Chinese media counters
State‑owned China Daily fired back at Silver, claiming he “brazenly endorsed Morey’s tweet” and essentially shielded the protestors. They argued that backing “indiscriminate violence” originating from Hong Kong was a form of cheering on rebels.
Meanwhile, the Global Times took a harsher line, accusing the NBA of caving under political pressure and treating the massive Chinese market with “arrogant disregard.” They mocked any tweet that “offends” Chinese people before the NBA’s promotional activities in China, labeling it a “lack of intellect, respect, and responsibility.”
Extra twist (and a touch of history)
The Global Times also drew a controversial comparison, suggesting that for a significant portion of Chinese netizens, the Hong Kong riots are akin to the September 11 attacks—an assertion that sparked its own wave of indignation.
What’s happening on the ground?
While no fatalities have broken out in the latest Hong Kong protests, dozens of protesters and media members have been injured. The protests, some describe as a way to “liberate the city,” are also characterized by the partisans as a “secessionist pipe dream” used to justify their summer “hooliganism.”
Impact on the NBA in China
Chinese broadcasters, apparel brands, and sponsors are re‑examining their partnership with the NBA. Television networks have already decided to pull their scheduled exhibition games in China, citing that “sovereignty and social stability” remain beyond the scope of free speech.
In short, the saga has put the NBA at the center of a cultural and political storm, forcing it to navigate the fine line between free expression and respect for the host nation’s sensibilities—all while keeping the ball in play.
