LeBron James is making it clear that he sees the game of basketball as more than just competition. In an op-ed published Monday in People’s Daily Newspaper, a Chinese state-run outlet, James described the sport as “not only a sport, but also a bridge that connects us.”
The Lakers star spent time in China ahead of two NBA preseason matchups scheduled there next month, marking the league’s return to the country after a five-year absence. NBA games were suspended in 2019 following then-Houston Rockets GM Daryl Morey’s comments in support of protesters in Hong Kong. When commissioner Adam Silver refused to punish Morey, China halted NBA broadcasts for a year before gradually restoring them, with full coverage returning in 2022.
During his visit, James reflected on the warm welcome he received. “I am deeply moved by the passion and friendliness of my Chinese friends and I can only express my gratitude by giving my best in every game,” he said. “It’s super humbling for me to be able to come here, so far away from home, and get the reception and the love. I just wanted to pour it back to the community and to this country.”
For James, the return of NBA action in China is more than basketball. It represents an opportunity for cultural exchange, mutual respect, and the chance for the game to act as common ground between two global powers.