"Writing in Monday's edition of the People's Daily newspaper, the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers star said "basketball is not only a sport, but also a bridge that connects us." The piece was published as James was in China ahead of two NBA preseason games next month in Macao between the Phoenix Suns and the Brooklyn Nets. And it comes as leaders in China and the U.S. seek options to avert a potential trade showdown between the world's two biggest economies."
"As the standoff unfolds, James' comments caught the attention of the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post, which reported: "It is rare for the mouthpiece of China's ruling Communist Party to run articles carrying the byline of foreign sports stars. It is more common for international sporting heroes to connect with fans in China via Chinese social media." Ahead of his 23rd season in the NBA, James said he was amazed by the reception he has received in China."
LeBron James wrote an op-ed in China's People's Daily linking basketball to diplomacy amid U.S.-China trade tensions. He described basketball as a bridge connecting people and expressed humility over the reception he received in China. The timing coincided with his visit ahead of two NBA preseason games in Macao between the Phoenix Suns and the Brooklyn Nets. Ongoing U.S.-China negotiations included threats of steep tariffs and a 90-day delay by President Trump. Chinese media noted the rarity of foreign sports stars bylined in state-run outlets. The NBA aims to rebuild its brand in greater China.
Read at ESPN.com
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