The Golden State Warriors debuted uniforms celebrating Chinese New Year in their February 20th game against the San Antonio Spurs. The Chinese Characters are said to say “warriors.” They will also wear the uniforms in their games on February 24 in Washington against the Wizards and also on March 2 in Brooklyn against the Nets. Warriors President and Chief Operating Officer Rick Welts says:
We have been working with the NBA for two years now on our Chinese New Year uniforms to recognize the tremendous fan base that our Asian community represents. Connecting with our Asian community is a priority for our organization and we are proud that we are going to be one of two teams in the NBA to debut a Chinese New Year themed uniform as a way to thank our fans here in the Bay Area and abroad in China.
The Houston Rockets first used their Chinese New Year uniforms on February 21 against the Toronto Raptors and will use their uniform on February 23 against the Minnesota Timberwolves and on February 25 against the Los Angeles Clippers. Rockets legend Yao Ming commented about this and Rockets owner Leslie Alexander:
It brings great joy to me to see the Houston Rockets honor one of my country’s most important traditions. Mr. Alexander and the Rockets have long embraced our culture and customs and made basketball fans in China a part of the Rockets community. I’m excited to ring in the Year of the Goat watching the Rockets wear the Lunar New Year uniforms.
(photo credits: nba.com)
