Former NBA player Enes Kanter sharply criticized Commissioner Adam Silver over the league’s recent partnership with the Chinese Basketball Association.
Speaking on Fox Business, Kanter accused Silver of prioritizing business over human rights, saying, via HoopsHype, “Adam Silver is literally selling this league to the biggest dictatorship in the world.”
Kanter recalled his experiences in the NBA bubble, noting that while the league encouraged discussion on domestic issues, speaking out about China’s human rights record was met with attempts to silence him.
“The NBA knew it wasn’t going to affect them. Money and business — more people watched NBA games in China than the American population last year,” Kanter said.
The comments come shortly after the NBA announced a multi-year agreement with the CBA, aiming to expand professional opportunities for Chinese athletes in the United States. Commissioner Silver called the partnership “transformational” and emphasized its potential to elevate talent development in both countries.
Kanter argued that the league’s financial interests are outweighing ethical considerations, highlighting a longstanding tension between the NBA and China. He suggested that Silver should step down as commissioner over the issue.
Under the deal, elite Chinese players will gain increased exposure to NBA and WNBA training programs, coaching, and competitive environments, with joint events and developmental initiatives planned.
The NBA’s new agreement reinforces a decades-long presence in China, including international games, grassroots initiatives, and previous talent exchanges, further cementing its business ties with the country.
