NBA Needs Further Expansion To Asia, But How?
First there was Yao Ming. Now, Jeremy Lin is driving the Asian market for the NBA sky high. Asian TV stations are chomping at the bit to be able to get New York Knicks Games on the television sets of their viewers. The NBA needs to continue to expand its brand to Asia, but how should it do that?
The NFL is currently delving into Europe and abroad by playing games outside the country. Meaningful games with real playoff implication, not just preseason exhibitions where teams do not care about the outcome.
First and foremost, the NBA should figure out a way how to play a few regular season games in China. 12 PM games in China equate to a 10 PM CST game in the United States, which is not too bad. A weekend game or two could easily be able to be done. This could be done right before the All Star Break, so teams and players have adequate time to come back to the United States after a long flight.
Secondly, a better China versus NBA cycle needs to be developed. In the pre-season, professional Chinese teams should play NBA teams. Currently, the NCAA is doing this, with mixed results. But if NBA played these teams? That could be a great matchup. It will not quite be USA vs China national teams, but do not underestimate the competitiveness of their professional squads.
Thirdly, said Chinese league needs to continue to grow and improve. Any newer leagues are not going to be the best right away. The NBA needs to help the league grow. ESPN and Disney have already invested millions. The league needs to get a move on it too.
These are three areas where I think the NBA could capitalize on the market that is rapidly expanding. The NBA needs to continue to move before it misses out on such a great opportunity.
