Newly elected CBA chairman Yao Ming points way toward basketball reform

In an interview with Yao Ming, the newly elected CBA (China Basketball Association) chairman, the star discussed looming reforms to China’s basketball industry and how to carry them out.

Yao welcomes all professional talents, especially those who work for the government, to contribute ideas and experience to the reform. Though he is prioritizing innovation, Yao also made it clear that consistency is essential to success.

Yao intends to give full play to the effects of league matches in order to let the market retain a decisive role in reform. He said that basketball games, as a public good, should be tailored to the demands of consumers. Yao hopes to build a talent pool that attracts, retains and supports excellent players, thus making future recruitment more productive.

On the topic of building the national basketball team, Yao pointed out that the recruitment system needs a major adjustment. He proposes that players be invited to take part in the games on behalf of the country, instead of being deployed or mandated to play for the country. In this way, players' shared sense of responsibility will be strengthened, which will help to encourage their best performances.