The NBA faces increased scrutiny over its close ties to China after critics pointed out that customers are unable to print “FreeHongKong” when ordering custom equipment from their online store.
A video shared by a Twitter user named Vince on Sunday night went viral showing his attempt to order a personalized shirt with the text that says “FreeHongKong” on the Fanatics.com site, which has direct links to all sports leagues. most important, including the NBA.
“We cannot customize this item with the text you entered. Please try a different entry,” says the error message at the bottom.
JOSH HAWLEY INVITES ESPN CEO TO TALK TO CHINA AND THE NBA BETWEEN A MEETING WITH THE SPORTS REPORTER
However, Vince was able to successfully request “FreeHongKonu”, changing the last letter to an “u” from a “g”.
“Whatsup @NBA @Fanatics,” asked Vince.
Fox News was able to confirm on Fanantics and the NBA online store itself that “FreeHongKong” cannot be printed on the shirt. The custom kit only allows 12 characters and the site allows “Hong Kong” and “HongKongFree” to be printed.
As Peter J. Hasson of The Daily Caller pointed out, “FreeAmerica”, “FreeCanada”, “FreeMexico” and “FreeTaiwan” can also be printed on the computer.
Outkick founder and sports journalist Clay Travis criticized the apparent ban, noting the league’s recent decision to allow players to use pre-approved social justice slogans on their uniforms.
“The NBA prohibits you, fanatic, from putting #FreeHongKong on custom league jerseys, even when they allow players to wear custom jerseys,” Travis wrote.
Other critics piled on the NBA, accusing the league of being welcoming to China.
More evidence of the shameful cowardice and unwillingness of the @ NBA to defend human rights in China. This is amazing, “said Senator Rick Scott, Republican of Florida.” The NBA and its players have chosen earnings over human rights. They are on the side of Xi and the CCP over those who are fighting for their freedom. “
WOJ BOMB? SEN. HAWLEY PUBLISHES ESPN REPORTER’S PROFANE RESPONSE TO HIS CRITICISM OF THE NBA BOARD
“Of course @NBA Incorporated doesn’t dare offend payers in #Bejing!” Senator Josh Hawley, Republican. said in a similar way.
“Wow it looks like @KingJames & co. I could love that China cash even more than Hunter Biden! #BeijingBiden,” Donald Trump Jr. hit both NBA star LeBron James and the Bidens.
“The NBA is a courageous advocate of social justice,” National Review editor Rich Lowry sarcastically tweeted.
The NBA did not immediately respond to Fox News’ request for comment.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The issue of the NBA’s close ties to China was renewed last week after prominent NBA ESPN reporter Adrian Wojnarowski sent Senator Hawley a profane response to the lawmaker’s criticism of the league’s decision to “pre-approved social justice slogans” while “censoring support” for law enforcement and criticism of the Chinese Communist Party.
Wojnarowski apologized to Hawley, and ESPN later suspended the journalist.
