Nets’ reflections on their preseason trip to China that had two main goals

Nets’ Trip to China Highlights Growth and Cultural Exchange

During the Nets’ recent visit to China, Ziare Williams had one experience that really caught his attention. “The egg tart custard here is truly delicious,” he remarked as the trip was wrapping up. “I’m a big foodie, and I think McDonald’s here is actually better.”

However, this trip was about more than just unique culinary delights.

The Nets and Suns faced off in two preseason games at Macau’s Venetian Arena, marking the first time NBA teams played in China since relations with the communist regime soured in 2019.

Macau functions as a “special administrative region” of China, which means it operates under its own governance and economic policies, even though it’s still under Chinese control.

The games were part of a five-year partnership involving the NBA and Sands China, a subsidiary of the Las Vegas Sands, aiming to elevate NBA presence in Macau, where both the arena and the partnership are strategically planned.

Mavericks owner Miriam Adelson is also associated with the Las Vegas Sands.

Commissioner Adam Silver indicated that the NBA is contemplating reinstating games in mainland China, coinciding with the Macau agreement, which seems promising following this successful trip.

“It was a fantastic experience,” Nets coach Jordi Fernandez commented after Game 2, where the Nets narrowly won 111-109. “We always understood we had widespread support because the NBA is a global entity, impacting many lives. But witnessing the excitement of the crowd and their hospitality makes it remarkable. It’s a unique blend of experience and culture.”

The tension in NBA-China relations began when former Rockets GM Daryl Morey expressed support for pro-democracy movements in Hong Kong. Following this, China pulled the NBA’s sponsorship deal, resulting in a significant revenue drop as games ceased to air on Chinese state television.

To regain ground in China, the Nets are playing a crucial role, especially with co-owner Joe Tsai, a prominent businessman in China.

Tsai, although Taiwanese and considering Taiwan as a sovereign entity, has generally shown public support for Chinese policies despite rising geopolitical tensions surrounding Taiwan. Silver has referred to Tsai as “invaluable” for the league’s growth in China.

This ongoing involvement has made the Nets one of the favorite teams in China.

During this trip, fans came out in numbers to support the team. Zeng Huangbo, one of the promising talents from China, was almost part of the training camp but was released after the team signed Grant Nelson.

“Probably the best part was the fan interaction,” Cam Thomas noted, emphasizing how wonderful it was to engage with such enthusiastic supporters. “It was just awesome to be in front of a full crowd.”

“Basketball is a global sport, and it continues to expand,” Williams added. “Playing for fans who are so passionate across the globe feels great. I believe the sport will keep growing and inspire more kids to chase their dreams.”

Beyond being beneficial for the league, this trip might also be pivotal for the Nets. The bonding time could signify the beginning of a new chapter for the team, which is relying on a record number of five rookies to build its future.