Vice President Mike Pence criticized Nike and the NBA for actions undertaken after NBA executive Daryl Morey posted a tweet in support of Hong Kong protesters earlier this month.
Speaking at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars on Oct. 24, Pence said: “Nike promotes itself as a so-called social justice champion, but when it comes to Hong Kong, it prefers checking its social conscience at the door.”
Pence then took aim at the NBA, adding: “Some of the NBAs biggest players and owners, who routinely exercise their freedom to criticize this country, lose their voices when it comes to the freedom and rights of the people of China.”
Nike, which pulled some products from Chinese stores over the summer after the person who designed them indicated support for Hong Kong, also removed Rockets merchandise in China after Morey posted his tweet.
A number of people employed in the NBA, meanwhile, including Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, Rockets coach Mike DAntoni, and Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving have declined to offer their support for Morey.
Others have openly criticized him. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James claimed Morey was “misinformed” when he sent the tweet. Rockets star James Harden apologized to China after Moreys post.
The NBA said it recognized that Moreys views “have deeply offended many of our friendsRead More – Source
