In 2019, Daryl Morey, the general manager of the Houston Rockets, sent out a tweet in support of the Hong Kong protests. This seemingly innocent act had major consequences for the NBA, as it led to strained relations with one of their most lucrative international partners, China. The Chinese Basketball Association immediately cut ties with the NBA, and the highly anticipated Global Games in China were abruptly cancelled. This incident sparked years of silence, careful diplomacy, and strained relations between the two parties. However, in 2025, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announced a new vision for the WNBA that could potentially mend the broken relationship between the NBA and China.
The NBA has always been a global brand, with a strong presence in China. The league has been successful in expanding its reach and popularity in the country, with millions of fans tuning in to watch games and purchasing merchandise. However, the 2019 tweet by Morey caused a major setback for the NBA’s relationship with China. The Chinese government and fans were outraged by the tweet, which they saw as an attack on their sovereignty. This led to a complete freeze in relations between the two parties, with the NBA facing a significant financial loss.
For years, the NBA and China have been working behind the scenes to repair their damaged relationship. The league has been careful in its approach, trying not to offend the Chinese government or fans any further. However, this silence has also been met with criticism, with many accusing the NBA of prioritizing profits over human rights. The league has been walking a tightrope, trying to find a balance between maintaining its global presence and standing up for its values.
But now, in 2025, Adam Silver has announced a new vision for the WNBA that could potentially change the game for both the league and its relationship with China. The WNBA, which has always been overshadowed by its male counterpart, is set to take center stage with this new vision. Silver has announced plans to expand the WNBA’s reach and popularity, with a focus on developing young talent and promoting the league globally.
One of the key players in this new vision is rising star Caitlin Clark. The 21-year-old point guard has taken the WNBA by storm with her impressive skills and record-breaking performances. With her sharp shooting and playmaking abilities, Clark has become a fan favorite and a rising star in the league. Her potential to become one of the best players in the world has caught the attention of the Chinese market, with many fans eagerly following her journey.
Another player who will play a crucial role in this new vision is Napheesa Collier. The 26-year-old forward has been a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA since her debut in 2019. She has quickly established herself as one of the top players in the league, with her all-around game and leadership skills. Collier’s impressive performances have also caught the eye of the Chinese market, with many fans admiring her talent and determination.
With the new vision for the WNBA, the league is set to expand its reach and popularity in China. The focus on developing young talent and promoting the league globally will not only benefit the WNBA but also help repair the strained relationship with China. The Chinese market has a huge potential for growth, and with the WNBA’s rising stars, the league can tap into this market and attract a new fan base.
The announcement of this new vision has been met with excitement and optimism from both the WNBA and Chinese fans. It is a step in the right direction for the league, as it looks to expand its global presence and promote women’s basketball. The potential for the WNBA to become a global brand is immense, and with the support of the Chinese market, it can achieve this goal.
In conclusion, the 2019 tweet by Daryl Morey may have caused a major setback for the NBA’s relationship with China, but the league has not given up on repairing this relationship. With the new vision for the WNBA, the league is set to expand its reach and popularity globally, including in China. The rising stars of the WNBA, such as Caitlin Clark and Napheesa Collier, will play a crucial role in this new vision, and their talent and determination will help bridge the gap between the NBA and China. This is a positive step towards a brighter future for both the WNBA and the NBA’s relationship with China.
