Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey has attempted to defuse the growing fallout over his deleted tweet supporting Hong Kong anti-government protesters, stating he did not intend to offend Chinese fans or sponsors. The NBA also expressed regret that the tweet offended many in China, following backlash from major Chinese business partners.
The controversy began when Morey tweeted an image reading 'Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong,' referencing the four-month protest movement in the semi-autonomous Chinese territory. Houston owner Tilman Fertitta quickly distanced the team from Morey's comments, but the Chinese Basketball Association, led by former Rockets center Yao Ming, suspended its relationship with the team.
Tencent, a major NBA media partner with a $1.5 billion streaming deal, and Chinese state television both announced they would not broadcast Rockets games. Li-Ning, a Chinese athletic apparel maker, also expressed displeasure. It remains unclear if Morey's apology or the NBA's statement will salvage these relationships.
Morey tweeted from Japan, where the Rockets are playing, saying he was 'merely voicing one thought, based on one interpretation, of one complicated event' and hoped those upset would understand his intentions. NBA chief communications officer Mike Bass acknowledged the tweet 'deeply offended many of our friends and fans in China, which is regrettable,' while supporting individuals' rights to share views.
The incident comes at an awkward time for the NBA, which has prioritised ties with China for decades. With preseason games in China this week, a new gaming team in Shanghai, and up to 500 million Chinese viewers last season, the league faces significant economic and reputational risks. The Chinese consulate in Houston expressed 'strong dissatisfaction' with the Rockets.
