The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns became the first NBA teams to set foot in China since the league’s rift with the country in 2019. Their preseason trip hinted at the evolving relationship between the NBA and this global market, offering a glimpse of mutual interest beyond basketball.
What Nets thought about preseason China trip that served dual purpose

Key Takeaways:
- Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns led the NBA’s return to China.
- They are the first teams to play there since 2019.
- The NBA’s relationship with China was fractured that year.
- The journey served a dual purpose, both athletic and diplomatic.
- The original story comes from the New York Post.
The Historic Return
The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns recently traveled to China, marking the first visit by NBA teams since 2019. According to the original report, their arrival signaled a pivotal moment in reviving a once-robust basketball exchange. The trip was laden with significance, especially given the league’s fractured relationship with China in recent years.
A Preseason with a Purpose
Although it was officially a preseason tour, the venture carried importance beyond the court. While details on the games themselves are limited, the context was clear: This was a dual-purpose endeavor, showcasing competitive basketball while renewing ties between the NBA and a vital international audience.
Reflections on the Fractured Relationship
The NBA’s standing with China took a hit in 2019, described in the original content as a “fractured” relationship. Resuming play in China highlights the league’s desire to mend fences and capitalize on a market where basketball enjoys widespread popularity. Though the specifics of any ongoing negotiations were not disclosed, the trip itself indicates a willingness to reconnect and engage.
Looking Ahead
The Brooklyn Nets’ and Phoenix Suns’ visit may set the tone for future NBA involvement in China. With Adam Silver, Jordi Fernandez, and other key figures associated as keywords in the original feed, there seems to be broader league-level interest in resuming a more robust partnership. As the first step since 2019, this preseason event could open the door to further games, collaborations, and renewed dialogue between the NBA and one of its largest international audiences.