In response to a demonstration in Hong Kong, a tweet from an executive of a popular US basketball team has developed into a turmoil involving Chinese and US politicians. The question of whether sports that should serve as a bridge between different cultures are democratic, freedom of expression, or priority on the profits of huge markets.
The cause of the problem was the NBA powerhouse team, popular in China, Houston Rockets' Daryl Maury GM, on the 5th, tweeted images that said, “Let's fight for freedom” and “Let's stand up with Hong Kong” It was.
On the other hand, the Chinese basketball association rebounded that it was an unjust statement on the 6th. Decided to suspend cooperation with Rockets.
According to the US media, China National Broadcasting and the Chinese Internet giant “Tencent”, which has an NBA media partner relationship, will not broadcast the Rockets game in China. Tencent has signed a $ 1.5 billion contract with the NBA over the next five years. The plan is to provide Chinese fans with live coverage of the game during the season, on-demand distribution, and video programs.
Rockets is the most popular team in China. This is because the legendary Chinese basketball player Mr. Zhao Ming (39) belonged. 229 cm, Mr. Tsuji joined Rockets as the 1st overall in the 2002 draft. He was chosen eight times for the All-Star, and Mr. Tsuji's number “11” is a permanent missing number for Rockets. Mr. Zhao currently serves as chairman of the China Basketball Association and is responsible for making this criticism.
There is also a success of 姚氏, basketball is one of China's popular sports, men's W Cup is also open in September this year, Xi Jinping (Shichinpin) Jintao attended the opening ceremony. On the Chinese SNS, comments such as "I love basketball but nothing better than patriotism" and "I want you to fire Mr. Morley to keep supporting Rockets".
NBA and Rockets were embarrassed by this reaction.
According to the US media, last seasons…