NBA defies past controversies by returning to China in 2025

China’s NBA fans will see a return of preseason games after a significant hiatus. The NBA has reached an agreement to host preseason games in China during the 2025 season, ending over five years of absence largely tied to diplomatic tensions arising from a tweet by Daryl Morey. On October 10 and 12, 2025, the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns will compete in Macao, a region known for its gambling industry, specifically at the Venetian Arena. This mark represents a substantial step towards re-establishing the league's relationship with China. The NBA’s banished entry into China initially stemmed from Daryl Morey's October 2019 tweet expressing support for pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong. The response from the Chinese government included significant backlash against the league and led to no NBA games being shown on CCTV for one year. Although the league has made efforts to mend relations, the incident had long-lasting effects on its presence and operations in China. This upcoming series of games comes amidst a slow reconciliation process between the NBA and China, reflecting a shift in attitudes. The league has been keen on upholding its principles while seeking opportunities to re-engage with its Chinese audience, which is pivotal for the league’s revenue. The inclusion of past NBA legends in a celebrity game in Macao demonstrates the league's ongoing initiatives to foster goodwill and reignite interest in basketball within the region. Alongside the planned matches, there are plans for two additional preseason games in China in 2026, showcasing the NBA’s commitment to a prolonged presence in the Chinese market. The ongoing efforts symbolize a broader strategy to regain viewership and commercial opportunities after years of estrangement. As the league navigates through its Chinese aspirations, it remains to be seen how these developments will unfold in terms of fan reception and potential economic benefits for both the NBA and Chinese stakeholders.