New Push Into China by N.B.A.

New York Times, September 19, 2007 — In an age dominated by Chinese exports, one import from the United States has stood taller than most here: basketball.

Timothy Chen, chief executive of Microsoft’s China operations, was hired to promote the National Basketball Association.

Now, in a move certain to highlight the growing importance of China to both the National Basketball Association and the sport, the N.B.A. plans to announce Wednesday the formation of a Chinese subsidiary. To head it, the league has chosen Timothy Chen, chief executive of Microsoft’s China operations and one of the best-known business executives in China.