China to discuss opt-out clauses for NBA players

Miami Heat basketball player LeBron James, center, poses for photos with Chinese basketball fans during a promotional event in Shanghai, China, Thursday Aug. 18, 2011. (AP Photo)

BEIJING — The Chinese Basketball Association is to discuss whether to allow NBA players to join Chinese clubs temporarily, with an opt-out clause that activates when the NBA’s lockout ends.

Without such a clause, NBA players would be reluctant to play in China as they would not be able to return to the NBA until their Chinese contract ends.

The main news portal of China’s General Administration of Sport said measures to bring in foreign players are still being worked out and that the Chinese Basketball Association will discuss the opt-out clause Friday.

Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul are among the players who have said they would consider playing in China if the NBA’s labor dispute drags on and results in cancellation of all or part of the 2011-12 season.