The NBA’s media partner in China, Tencent, has taken down all content related to Boston Celtics games, such as videos, highlights, and live broadcasts, following allegations made by Celtics center Enes Kanter against the Chinese government for carrying out a “cultural genocide” in Tibet.
During a recent game against the New York Knicks, Kanter made a statement by wearing shoes with the words “Free Tibet” printed on them. He also referred to China’s President Xi Jinping as a “brutal dictator.” In response, the Chinese foreign ministry dismissed Kanter’s comments as an attempt to gain attention.
Kanter further expressed his views in a social media video, emphasizing the lack of basic rights and freedoms for Tibetan people. He highlighted restrictions on studying their language and culture, limited access to information, and constraints on religious practices for Tibetans.
Originally from Turkey, Kanter has been vocal in his criticism of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. His recent remarks against the Chinese government followed a meeting he had with members of the Tibetan community at a center in New York.
Some critics have drawn comparisons to a previous incident where the Chinese government reacted strongly when Houston Rockets executive Daryl Morey voiced support for Hong Kong protestors. This led to a similar situation where Chinese networks refused to air NBA games, resulting in financial losses for the league.
