Won't be a long line !
Not sure that there will be a long line applying for this job at the NBA. What we have here is not truly a marketing challenge...it's really a clash of cultures that have surfaced big time. It's clear that we can transfer a sport overseas, not clear that this audience shares the same cultural positions as we do here in the USA. Attempts to rationalize that the NBA can be the good will ambassador for the American culture thru the game in China have run into a major wall. Chinese government at a base level doesn't share the same commitment to free speech that we enjoy here in the states.
No marketing campaigns, techniques and strategies is going to change this fundamental cultural dynamic. We can do only so much "masking" this disconnect between the two cultures. The Chinese fan loves the game....the government isn't ready to abandon its social mores and biases. China is in control in China...nuf said. We can do all the marketing we want...but when China senses that it is not in the best interest of China to move forward they stop that activity. - this is not America.
Don't expect any big name candidates to step up here. This is the hottest of hot seats...
Al D