The NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, stated that a tweet posted in October 2019, which has since been removed, has resulted in a loss of “hundreds of millions of dollars” in revenue for the league.
According to Silver, free speech is an invaluable asset that cannot be quantified with a price tag.
Adam Silver says free speech outweighs financial loss
The origin traces back to the moment when Daryl Morey, then serving as the Houston Rockets’ general manager, shared an image accompanied by a concise six-word message on Twitter.
Stand with Hong Kong and fight for freedom.
About five months after hundreds of thousands of people commenced storming Hong Kong streets in protest of a bill enabling extradition from Hong Kong to mainland China, he posted a tweet.
The Chinese government-controlled network, Chinese Central Television (CCTV), responded swiftly by imposing an 18-month blackout on NBA games. However, this ban was recently lifted on March 29, as CCTV broadcasted the live coverage of the L.A. Clippers’ victorious 121-115 game against the Utah Jazz.
Silver supports sports as a platform
In 2019, Silver expressed disapproval of Morey’s tweet, but he has since changed his stance and now publicly supports it. Speaking at a press conference prior to the NBA Finals, he spoke positively about the league’s relationship with China.
He mentioned that the NBA had a long-standing connection of approximately 35 years with CCTV. By both exporting the league’s content to China and upholding freedom of expression, a positive message is effectively conveyed.
I have stated this multiple times, but I firmly believe that engagement, especially through sports, is a positive thing. Utilizing sports as a means to promote global conversations is crucial for ensuring the safety and prosperity of individuals worldwide. Simultaneously, I do not see any conflict with our values when it comes to broadcasting our game in China and over 200 other countries.
Silver acknowledged that the league is willing to bear the financial consequences resulting from Morey’s tweet.
“We acknowledge and affirm our stance, which I expressed when we declared our support for our players and team executives’ freedom of expression, whether it pertains to matters within the United States or anywhere else in the world. If facing repercussions is the outcome, then it is a testament to the fact that our values accompany us wherever we go.”
At least, Morey’s outspoken nature has paid off for him as he has now assumed the presidency of the Philadelphia 76ers.
The long-term impact of the decision on the NBA can only be determined over time.
Silver talks Britney Griner
During the June 2 press conference, WNBA star Brittney Griner was also a topic of discussion, as mentioned by Silver.
For over 130 days, the Phoenix Mercury center, standing at an impressive height of six feet nine inches, has been unlawfully confined in Russia. Griner’s unfortunate ordeal began on February 17 when she was taken into custody at Sheremetyevo Airport, located in close proximity to Moscow. The reason behind her arrest was an alleged discovery of marijuana vape cartridges within her baggage.
According to Silver, the league is collaborating closely with the government to assist in the safe return of the 31-year-old.
I believe it is important for everyone to voice their opinions on this matter by reaching out to their representative and other relevant individuals. We are closely collaborating with the U.S. government and experts to do everything in our power to speed up her release. We sincerely empathize with her and her family, and we eagerly await her safe return.
NBA action on social justice issues
From the start of the press conference, Silver hinted at social justice matters, stating:
Today, as we gather here to engage in the game of basketball, it is essential that I address a few topics. Despite our focus on the sport, it is evident that we cannot evade the presence of a highly divided society and the pressing matters it entails. From firearms to the more recent LGBTQ concerns, various societal issues have become intertwined with this league, embedded in its very core for a considerable duration.
Additionally, he made reference to the establishment of an NBA Foundation and a social justice coalition by the league. The objective is to collectively advance progress and it seems that this strategy has been successful thus far.
Despite a 30% increase in viewership, the NBA Finals continue to face challenges in achieving the same level of viewership as seen in 2019 and earlier years.
In contrast, the viewership of the WNBA has not yet reached its highest point. Additionally, the excitement for the 2022 WNBA season is growing, as the Playoffs kick off on August 17, followed by the Finals in mid-September.
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