The National Basketball Association (NBA), is known for being one of the most progressive sports organizations in the world. They've always been open with their ideals and supported the players in any political decisions they've made. For Trump's entire candidacy, not a single trip to the White House has been made for winning a championship.
Another example of their progressiveness, is standing by Colin Kaepernick's side during his protest of the national anthem due to police brutality. After a Sacramento Kings basketball game, Kings owner Vivek Ranadive gave a speech to the fans and everyone watching around the world to raise awareness. The entire NBA followed suit and began wearing warm up shirts in reference to the various acts of police violence that occurred.
While all these things the NBA did were very commendable and progressive, their opinion was the popular opinion and it made them money.
In more recent news, Houston Rockets, General Manager, Daryl Morey tweeted in solidarity with the Hong Kong protesters. The protests are in support of stopping China from taking over Hong Kong's democratic society.
This one tweet caused an incredible backlash with consequences that effect the entirety of the NBA. The Chinese government immediately spoke out against Morey's tweets and have threatened to revoke many sponsorship's from the entire NBA. While most would think the NBA would side with Morey, that is not the case. China is a huge part of the NBA's income and they have the authority to stop any viewing of the NBA in their entire country.
NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, has spoke in favor of Morey's beliefs and that they will face the consequences that China has delivered. While he is the Commissioner, NBA teams rely on China being a big source of the revenue they generate.
With more news to come on the matter, the question that is raised is... What's more important? Money or the advocacy of human rights across the globe?
Important and timely topic.
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