Editor's note: The article is a translation of an opinion piece first published by CCTV.com on October 7, 2019. The article does not necessarily reflect the views of CGTN. 

Daryl Morey, general manager of the Houston Rockets, has voiced his support to Hong Kong's recent riots via his twitter, which has been widely criticized by Chinese people. The Chinese Consulate-General in Houston has made stern representations to the Rockets. The Chinese Basketball Association and the Sports Channel under China Media Group and many sponsors of the Rockets from China have also announced that they would cut ties with the Rockets.  

Faced with strong resistance from Chinese fans, the owner of Rockets Tilman Fertitta made an urgent statement, saying that Morey does not represent Rockets and they are not "a political organization." Mike Bass, chief communication officer of the Rockets, also stated that it was "regrettable" that the views of Morey have "deeply offended many of our friends and fans in China." Even though Morey has deleted the tweet and later stated that he never intended to "cause any offense to Rockets fans," but he's never made a formal apology.  

It is known to all that national sovereignty is not to be challenged and national dignity not to be violated in any part of the world. As someone who should have known China pretty well and as a well-known manager, Morey has crossed the line and offended all Chinese people including Rockets fans when he publicly supported Hong Kong's rioters.  

NBA always claims that it is devoted to promoting communication between different countries and cultures. As a famous NBA manager, Morey's action was a defiance of the NBA's values. This incident will not only affect the image of Morey himself and Rockets but could also discredit the image of NBA. 

As Yao Ming, one of the most popular Chinese basketball players, was a former Rockets player, the team has always been quite popular in China. In 17 years, Rockets have attracted many sponsors from China and made a fortune. It is one of the most successful NBA teams in China and Morey himself has benefited directly from it. But such popularity will never overshadow the fact that while they like basketball game, Chinese fans love their country much more. Any Chinese with conscience would not tolerate such acts that challenge national sovereignty.  

Over the years, some multinationals have crossed the line concerning China's sovereignty, which has been strongly resisted by the Chinese people. Hong Kong issue should be China's internal affairs and no interference would be allowed. Morey and the Rockets should recognize that they have caused serious offense to Chinese people and they need to make a sincere apology. They should not underestimate China's determination in defending its rights. 

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