The Los Angeles Clippers and Charlotte Hornets are set to play two preseason games in China as part of the Global Games China 2015. The NBA has consistently made efforts over the past decade to grow the sport of basketball in the world’s most populous nation, which has an estimated 300 million people playing the game. Since 2004, the NBA has had 20 games played in Greater China, and needless to say, there is much anticipation for the October 11th game in Shenzhen and the October 14th bout in Shanghai.
Commissioner Adam Silver stated, “These games will not only bring the excitement of NBA action directly to Chinese fans, but will also provide the league another opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of China.”
The Clippers are headlined by eight-time NBA All-Star Chris Paul and five-time NBA All-Star Blake Griffin. This trip will mark the second time “Lob City” will have played in China, having played games in Beijing and Shanghai in 2012.
The Hornets, who are owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan, on the other hand will be making their first trip to China. The freshly rebranded team is manned by emerging stars Kemba Walker and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist as well as Al Jefferson, who consistently provides presence in the paint with his unorthodox array of moves and shot angles.
NBA China CEO David Shoemaker and Deputy Director of Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ke Gangming made the announcement on March 26th in Shenzhen, China. The NBA Global Games China 2015 will also have a number of off-court activities and are sponsored by AEG Live Asia, iRENA Group, and several marketing and merchandising partners. Both matches will be broadcasted worldwide via television, digital, and social media.
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