This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
Published on May 11, 2020, the NBA's broadcasting woes in China continue as the country's state broadcaster CCTV remains resolute in its decision not to air games.
The blackout began in October 2019 after Houston Rockets' general manager Daryl Morey expressed support for Hong Kong's pro-democracy demonstrations, sparking a backlash in China.
"Regarding rumours (about broadcasting games), we should reiterate we have not had any contact or dialogue with the NBA as of today," CCTV News stated on Weibo, a Chinese social media platform.
"On issues concerning sovereignty, our attitude is severe, resolute, consistent and there is no room for manoeuvre. The NBA should understand this position," the statement added.
As a result of the controversy, the NBA is expected to lose "several hundred million dollars" in broadcasting, merchandising, and sponsorship interests in China, where it has a significant fan base.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver had previously defended the league's "freedom of expression of the NBA community" but acknowledged the potential financial losses.
