The NBA estimates that around 300 million people play basketball in China – but much of its popularity stems from the success of Yao Ming in the NBA.
The 7ft 5in centre joined the Houston Rockets in 2002, helping to transform them into “China’s team” during a seven-year spell in the United States.
The Macau games aim to bolster the NBA’s profile in China further, capitalising on an audience that is eager for the return of the sport.
Games have now returned to Chinese state television, with the nation estimated to bring in $5bn (£3.7bn) for NBA China, according to ESPN.
“We are experiencing as great enthusiasm for the game as we ever have in China,” said NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
“As you know, there’s tremendous interest in the NBA throughout China, so it’s wonderful to be back here.”
Suns guard and four-time NBA All-Star Devin Booker adds: “Basketball without borders is super important, being here on their homeland and letting them see us play in person.”
This article is the latest from BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team.
Read the full article here