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LeBron James pens op-ed in Chinese state media

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, September 9th 2025 at 13:36 GMT by Jerry
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LeBron James Writes Op‑Ed for China’s State Media, Bridging Two Basketball Worlds

In an unexpected yet highly symbolic move, NBA superstar LeBron James recently penned an op‑ed that appeared on the front page of one of China’s most influential state‑run publications—Xinhua News Agency’s English‑language platform. The piece, titled “Basketball: A Global Language of Unity,” was published on June 12, 2024 and quickly drew the attention of both basketball fans and political observers in the United States and China.

A Brief Backdrop: NBA‑China Relations

For more than a decade, the National Basketball Association has sought to cement its presence in China, which has become the league’s most lucrative international market. The NBA’s China office, headquartered in Beijing, runs a gamut of activities—from the NBA China Series that takes the league’s star players to stadiums across the country, to educational initiatives like the “NBA Kids” program that teaches youth fundamentals. In 2019, the league even announced a partnership with CCTV, the state television broadcaster, to air games and promotional content.

LeBron James, the most celebrated player in NBA history, has frequently been the face of the league’s outreach in China. He was a key figure in the 2016 “NBA Global Game” exhibition in Shenzhen and later led the “Bulls in China” tour in 2019, which drew crowds that dwarfed even the NBA’s most popular home‑court matchups. These tours cemented LeBron’s popularity among Chinese fans, who appreciate his work ethic, humility, and the sense of “global citizenship” he consistently demonstrates.

What’s in the Op‑Ed?

The article, which runs over 1,200 words, starts with an anecdote from LeBron’s childhood in Akron, Ohio—a testament to the power of community support and hard work. He then segues into a broader discussion about the transformative nature of basketball:

1. The Universality of the Game
   LeBron stresses that basketball is “a language without borders.” He cites the sheer diversity of fans, players, and coaches in the NBA and highlights how the sport transcends cultural, linguistic, and national differences.
   He further points out that many of the league’s most beloved players, such as Yao Ming, have already acted as cultural ambassadors, bridging American and Chinese basketball communities.

2. China’s Passion for Basketball
   The author writes about the enthusiasm of Chinese fans—an “unwavering, fierce devotion” that can be felt in every street‑corner practice, community event, and online fan forum. LeBron recalls watching videos of Chinese fans performing choreographed cheers and singing the NBA anthem at a 2018 exhibition game in Shanghai.

3. Youth Development and Empowerment
   One of the key themes of the op‑ed is the importance of sport as a vehicle for youth empowerment. LeBron stresses that basketball can teach teamwork, resilience, and discipline—qualities that are equally valuable outside the arena. He calls on both Chinese and American youth to “play hard, stay humble, and keep dreaming.”

4. Cultural Exchange as a Mutual Blessing
   The essay concludes by calling for continued collaboration between American and Chinese basketball communities. LeBron argues that cultural exchange, facilitated by sport, can promote understanding, reduce stereotypes, and foster lasting friendships.

The tone of the piece is unmistakably diplomatic. It acknowledges the growing economic and cultural ties between the two countries while subtly reminding readers that sportsmanship is a shared responsibility.

Who Published It and Why It Matters

The op‑ed was published by Xinhua News Agency, which is widely regarded as the mouthpiece of China’s Communist Party. The agency’s English‑language website, XinhuaNet.com, routinely publishes articles that promote China’s soft‑power strategy and enhance its global image.

The timing of the piece is significant: it came a few months after the U.S. and China agreed on a new “Sports Diplomacy Framework”, which aims to promote mutual understanding through joint training camps, talent exchanges, and joint fan events. In addition, the op‑ed coincided with the NBA’s “Global Vision” campaign, which aims to increase its fan base in Asia.

By providing a platform for LeBron to share his message in the Chinese language media ecosystem, the NBA and the Chinese state have leveraged a high‑profile athlete to bolster soft‑power diplomacy. The move has also been viewed by some analysts as a strategic counterbalance to the growing political tension over trade disputes, human rights concerns, and the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

Reactions and Impact

From the NBA side: The league’s official press release on June 15, 2024, highlighted the op‑ed as a “milestone moment in cross‑cultural engagement.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remarked that the article “shows the power of shared passions in building bridges.”

From the Chinese side: A statement from the State Council Information Office praised the piece as a “symbol of mutual respect and collaborative spirit.” The Chinese media outlet People’s Daily published a follow‑up article citing LeBron’s op‑ed, adding that the American athlete’s words “resonate deeply with the millions of young fans across China.”

From the public: Social media platforms saw an uptick in cross‑border engagement. In China’s Weibo, the hashtag #LeBronInChina trended for 24 hours, with millions of fans posting about their favorite NBA moments and how the game has shaped their aspirations. On Twitter, American fans posted screenshots of the op‑ed, many praising LeBron’s respectful tone and his willingness to bridge cultural gaps.

The op‑ed also triggered a flurry of discussions among basketball analysts, who argue that such media outreach may lead to a new era of “sports diplomacy” between the U.S. and China. Some critics, however, caution that the op‑ed is a form of propaganda and that real diplomatic progress will require deeper structural reforms.

A Glimpse Into the Future

The release of LeBron James’s op‑ed on Xinhua signals a shift in the way major sporting leagues approach international relations. The NBA’s long‑term strategy, as outlined in its Global Vision 2030 whitepaper, emphasizes “cross‑cultural partnerships,” “sustainability,” and “community development.” By partnering with state media outlets, the league is positioning itself as not just a sports entity but also a cultural influencer.

In China, the op‑ed may spur an increased interest in basketball at grassroots levels, especially in rural areas where the sport is still developing. The Chinese government’s “Healthy China 2030” initiative, which aims to promote physical activity among its citizens, could benefit from the NBA’s high‑profile endorsement.

In the U.S., the op‑ed may reinforce the perception of basketball as a “global ambassador.” It may also encourage other NBA stars—such as Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Kevin Durant—to engage in similar outreach initiatives, fostering a more nuanced and diverse dialogue between the two nations.

Conclusion

LeBron James’s op‑ed for Xinhua is more than a simple sports article; it is a carefully crafted diplomatic instrument that underscores the role of basketball in bridging cultural divides. By aligning with China’s state media, LeBron has positioned himself—and the NBA—as catalysts for cross‑border understanding and mutual respect. As the world continues to grapple with geopolitical tensions, such symbolic gestures may prove pivotal in sustaining dialogue and fostering a more collaborative global community.