I had no idea so many played there. 56 players, ex NBA or college who couldn't make a go of the NBA.
They have a yearly draft of U.S. players, some have played in China for years.
Recognize any of these players?
http://www.usba-inc.com/cba_draft.phpAh no wonder Nike ordered the Olympic commitee to pick China:
http://www.asianreporter.com/stories/intl09b-07.htmBut the NBA already has a 50-member staff — its largest abroad — and a game with deep roots.
"It’s the No. 1 market for us outside the United States," said Heidi Ueberroth, who directs the NBA’s international business. "We’ve seen double-digit growth over the past several years — and as far out as we can project. I can assure you it is very profitable."
She said the NBA generates about 10 percent of its $3 billion revenue outside the United States, and China is the biggest overseas contributor.
The NBA boasts 20,000 stores in China that carry its merchandise. China’s biggest broadcaster, state-run CCTV, airs four NBA games weekly, and 50 other stations across the country telecast games. Ueberroth visits the country three or four times per year, and is sure to return in October when two NBA teams play. The teams and venues have not been announced
What is the pay, conditions? 25K top to 8K bottom monthly.
Yi Jianlian is allegedly currently the best Chinese player and possible top 5 draft pick, Mitch Scrubchek and Danny Ainge have both scouted.
http://www.nba.com/news/cba_050413.html