NBA Subjects Fans Attending Clippers-Wizards Game To Video Message From Chinese Ambassador

On Tuesday, fans in Washington attending the Wizards vs. Clippers matchup were treated to a warm greeting from a Chinese government official leading up to tipoff.

Known for their ties to China, which has grown contentious on and off the court, the NBA treated its fans to several traditional Chinese New Year festivities.

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Qin Gang was introduced on screen, praising the strong connection between the Association and the Chinese market.

Excited to join everyone at the #NBA game #WashingtonWizards vs. #LAClippers last night to celebrate Chinese New Year. Wish everyone a happy and healthy Year of the Tiger and #TeamChina & #TeamUSA best of performances in #Beijing2022 #WinterOlympics. pic.twitter.com/Ym53QEjQse

— Qin Gang 秦刚 (@AmbQinGang) January 26, 2022

The theme of the Wizards’ home game was promoted under the banner of CNY, which was regarded as a simplification of the Lunar New Year festival that spans across East and Southeast Asian countries.

We'll be celebrating Chinese New Year tonight!

📍 @CapitalOneArena
🎙 @1067theFan
📺 @NBCSWashington#DCAboveAll

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) January 25, 2022

Prior to tipoff, the festivities included a recreation of the United States national anthem played on a pipa, a traditional Chinese-style lute.

The website for the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China highlighted the event as “Chinese Cultural Night” and spoke on the promotion of Chinese tradition from Capital One Arena in Washington.

“The Arena was rich in Chinese culture atmosphere, and the event is filled with festive elements of the Chinese New Year,” noted the message.

The Wizards blew a 35-point lead to the Clippers that evening, 116-115 — kicking off the Year of the Tiger as the prey.

Follow along on Twitter: @AlejandroAveela