While Chinese Basketball Association officials have considered enacting a rule that would forbid teams from offering NBA players contracts with opt-out clauses, Nike reportedly urged its biggest names to consider China during the lockout because of the potential marketing riches. Here’s a look at a team of highly marketable NBAers who would fit in no matter their sponsors. 5. Steve Nash »
While he’s Canadian, his flair and fancy passing abilities would suit him well with China’s fans. The Vitamin Water poster boy’s charisma off the court is just as strong as it is on it.
4. Kobe Bryant » Probably the most well-known hoops player outside of Yao Ming in China would have to be the Lakers star, who now sells the most jerseys there. When he played in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he was mobbed everywhere he went. He currently appears in commercials and on billboards in China.
3. LeBron James » While his “Decision” made him a villain in the U.S., James’ No. 6 Miami jersey was still the highest selling last season in America. His endorsements include Nike, Sprite, McDonald’s and State Farm. He hasn’t expressed interest in playing overseas but is touring China.
2. Blake Griffin »
Although he’s the youngest on the list, Griffin’s marketability is incredibly high. If he played in China, where he would continue to dunk on 10-foot rims like they were Nerf hoops, his brand only could improve.
1. Dwight Howard » Superman would fly to new limits in China. Howard’s sense of humor and dominance in the NBA have led to his high commercial appeal in America. He knows how to interact with fans well on social media.
– Scott Gleeson
