🏀 NBA Returns to China After 4 Years! The First Visit Since the Hong Kong Issue, What's the Reason?
I was truly intrigued when I heard this news! 😮 Isn't it amazing that the NBA is holding games in China for the first time in 4 years since 2019? Let's delve into the behind-the-scenes story of how the NBA and China, whose relationship soured due to pro-Hong Kong protest remarks in 2019, have come to reconnect.
Hello everyone! Today, I have some truly fascinating sports news to share with you all. It's the news that the National Basketball Association (NBA) is returning to China after a four-year hiatus. 🏀
When I heard this, my immediate thought was, 'Wow, finally!' As a basketball fan, it's incredibly exciting to be able to watch NBA games in China again after such a long time since 2019.
A Reunion After Four Years, Beginning in Macau
This marks the first visit to China by the NBA since 2019. Two preseason games are scheduled for this coming Friday and Sunday, featuring a matchup between the Brooklyn Nets and the Phoenix Suns. 🤩
The games will be held at an arena within the Venetian Macao Casino & Resort. This is the first time an NBA game has been held in Macau since 2007, making it a truly significant step.
The Seed of Deterioration: Remarks Supporting Hong Kong Protests
So, why was the NBA unable to hold games in China for four years? The pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong in 2019 had a significant impact.
At the time, an NBA official posted a tweet supporting the protesters, which drew strong backlash from the Chinese government and fans. China effectively halted NBA activities, leading to substantial financial losses for the NBA, it is reported. 😥
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The Key to Restoring Relations? A Partnership with Alibaba!
What then prompted the NBA and China to join hands again? It was the announcement of a multi-year partnership with Alibaba, a major Chinese technology company. This partnership, announced late last year, appears to have paved the way for the current China games. 🤝
Interestingly, the owner of the Brooklyn Nets is Joseph Tsai, who is also the executive chairman of Alibaba. Some analyses suggest this connection may have positively influenced the recent negotiations.
Future Outlook?
It remains to be seen how this NBA visit to China will impact the relationship between the two sides going forward. The NBA views these games as 'part of an effort,' and we will have to observe whether these games can serve as a positive signal for improving relations, beyond just being a sporting event. 👀
Isn't it wonderful to see a platform for culture and diplomacy opening up through sports? What are your thoughts on this NBA visit to China news? Please feel free to share your opinions in the comments! 👇
I'll be back with more interesting news soon. Thank you! 😊