This Day in Sports Business History October 15

On October 15, 2004, the NBA played its first-ever game in China, marking a major milestone in the league’s global expansion strategy. The Houston Rockets, led by Chinese superstar Yao Ming, faced the Sacramento Kings in a tightly contested exhibition game in Shanghai that the Rockets won 88–86. The event symbolized more than just a preseason matchup—it represented the NBA’s commitment to establishing a presence in one of the world’s largest and most promising sports markets. With Yao serving as a cultural and commercial bridge between the U.S. and China, the game drew massive local and international attention, opening the door to lucrative broadcast deals, sponsorships, and merchandising opportunities across Asia. The success of that night helped lay the foundation for the NBA China initiative launched in 2008, which today stands as one of the league’s most profitable international ventures.