Hornets, Clippers Head to China for Two Exhibition Games

By Cheri Cheng - 25 Mar '15 13:24PM

The Charlotte Hornets and the Los Angeles Clippers will be making the long trip to China for the NBA Global Games China 2015, the NBA announced early Wednesday morning in China.

The Hornets and Clippers will play the first game on Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Shenzhen Universiade Center in Shenzhen. The two teams will play once again on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai.

"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."

"We are delighted to have two young and talented teams in the Clippers and Hornets showcase the best NBA basketball to our fans in China," said NBA China CEO David Shoemaker. "We thank the Chinese Basketball Association and the cities of Shenzhen and Shanghai for their support as we continue to work with them to get more boys and girls to play and enjoy basketball and to grow the game in China."

On top of the two games, players from both teams will participate in several off-court activities, which will include the NBA Cares community programs. This will be the second time that the Hornets have participated in international preseason games. The first time took place in 1994 when the Hornets played the Golden State Warriors and the Italian team, Buckler Bologna in Paris and Bologna, Italy, respectively.

"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," said Hornets Chairman Michael Jordan.

Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer said, "Returning to China to participate in the NBA Global Games China is another important step in establishing the Clippers as a first-class international franchise. We are looking forward to representing Los Angeles and the NBA as we bring our exciting brand of basketball to all of our fans in China."

This will be the Clippers' second visit to China. They participated in the 2012 Global Games against the Miami Heat. The Clippers have also played in other preseason games in Mexico City (2010) and in Russia (2006).