Shocking NBA Ethics Scandal Unfolds

The NBA’s partnership with China raises ethical questions, as critics claim it compromises American values for profit.

Story Highlights

The NBA’s lucrative partnership with China has sparked debates on corporate ethics and human rights.
The 2019 Daryl Morey tweet supporting Hong Kong protests highlighted tensions between free speech and financial interests.
The NBA’s response to the crisis was seen as prioritizing profits over principles, drawing criticism for hypocrisy.

NBA’s Deepening Ties with China

The NBA’s relationship with China began in the late 1980s and has grown into a billion-dollar enterprise. This partnership was initiated by Commissioner David Stern, who secured a deal with Chinese Central Television to broadcast NBA games, paving the way for the league’s expansion in China. The NBA’s decision to transfer its intellectual properties to NBA China further solidified this lucrative relationship.

The selection of Yao Ming in the 2002 NBA Draft increased basketball’s popularity in China, leading to preseason games in the country and the Jr. NBA program. In 2015, the NBA partnered with Tencent, China’s leading digital platform, to stream games, significantly increasing viewership.

By 2019, the partnership with Tencent was valued at over $1.5 billion, with Chinese viewership numbers soaring. However, this financial success came at a cost, as it exposed the NBA’s vulnerability to Chinese political pressures.

Crisis and Criticism

The crisis erupted in October 2019 when Daryl Morey, then-General Manager of the Houston Rockets, tweeted in support of Hong Kong protesters. This act threatened the NBA’s relationship with China, as Chinese broadcasters temporarily suspended their association with the league. The NBA’s response, which appeared to prioritize maintaining its Chinese partnership, was criticized for potentially compromising its stated commitment to free speech.

Critics argue that the NBA’s actions reflect a willingness to compromise American values in favor of financial gain. The league’s decision to express regret over Morey’s tweet, rather than defend his right to free speech, was seen as a move to placate Chinese authorities and protect lucrative deals.

Implications for Global Business

The NBA’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for other organizations seeking to expand into China. While the financial rewards are significant, companies must navigate the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in the face of political and cultural pressures. The NBA’s case highlights the potential conflict between globalization and core values, as businesses may be forced to choose between profits and principles.

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NBA shamelessly selling its soul to despotic regimes and communist China pic.twitter.com/1g93fHsBKm

— PARROT REPORT 🐦 (@PARROTREPORT) October 11, 2025

The controversy underscores the complexities of international partnerships, where economic interests can clash with ethical obligations. As the NBA continues to engage with China, the league must balance its commercial ambitions with the values it promotes domestically.