LeBron James Says Executive Was ‘Misinformed’ in China Tweet

James, like many star players in the N.B.A., has large business interests in China through sponsors like Nike. He declined to offer his views of the political situation in China, saying he did not know enough about it to offer an informed opinion.

“For me personally, I’ve always been welcomed with open arms,” he said. “I’ve been to China probably over 15 to 20 times, and the main reason I’ve always wanted to go back to China is because of the game of basketball. The game of basketball has brought people together in so many different facets, in so many different countries — people you would never, ever expect.”

Almost as quickly as his news conference was finished, James was the subject of widespread backlash on social media. Senator Rick Scott, Republican of Florida, was among those who weighed in on Twitter: “It’s sad to see him join the chorus kowtowing to Communist China & putting profits over human rights for #HongKong.”

About an hour after his news conference, James began some damage control of his own on Twitter.

“Let me clear up the confusion,” he wrote in one of his posts, referring to his take on Morey’s tweet. “I do not believe there was any consideration for the consequences and ramifications of the tweet. I’m not discussing the substance. Others can talk about that.”

On Tuesday in Hong Kong, about 100 basketball fans stood on a court in the Wan Chai neighborhood, thanking Daryl Morey for his support at an event they called “Stand with Morey.”

Nikio Yuen, 24, who was wearing a Celtics Enes Kanter jersey, said he was “very disappointed” in James. “I thought he supported democracy and freedom,” he said. “When it comes to freedom of speech that affects the business of the league, he doesn’t support it.”

William Mok, 36, drew a comparison to James’ domestic activism. “Please remember, all N.B.A. players, what you said before,” he said. “Black lives matter. Hong Kong lives also matter.”

Source: The New York Times

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