LA Clippers, Charlotte Hornets NBA 2015 News, Rumors: 2 Pre-Season Games to Take Place in China in October 2015
NBA.com posted an official press release this Wednesday, saying that the NBA Global Games China 2015 will be featuring two preseason games between the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers in China.
The first Far East hard court clash will take place on Oct. 11 at the Shenzhen Universiade Center, the site announced. The game will continue on Oct. 14 at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai.
As it was further detailed during the press conference which took place in Shenzen this week, the Global Games China 2015 edition will also feature a "variety of off-court activities including NBA Cares community programs."
"We are delighted to have to young and talented teams in the Clippers and Hornets showcase the best NBA basketball to our fans in China," NBA China CEO David Shoemaker said in a statement.
"We are honoured to bring the NBA Global Games to Shenzhen for the first time," said Zhang Heyun, the culture, sports and tourism director of Shenzhen.
The Charlotte Hornets feature the talents of 2013-14 All-NBA Third Team selection Al Jefferson, which will be joined by emerging stars Kemba Walker and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. This will be first time that the franchise will be brought to China.
"The Charlotte Hornets are excited to play in NBA Global Games China and help grow the NBA's brand internationally, while showcasing the strength of our franchise and team to millions of Chinese basketball fans," owner and former Chicago Bulls superstar Michael Jordan said.
Meanwhile, the Clippers will be led by the eight-time NBA All-Star player Chris Paul and five-time All-Star Blake Griffin. This will be the team's second trip to the country following their games in Beijing and Shanghai in 2012.
"Basketball is more popular than ever, and Global Games China 2015 is part of our ongoing commitment to growing the game in the world's most populous nation," said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. "These games will not only bring the excitement of NBA action directly to Chinese fans, but will also provide the league another opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of China."
