It's not just in China that the Spring festival is celebrated. Take for example-- last night's Washington Wizards basketball game. Fans and players alike got very much into the Chinese New Year spirit.
Chinese lanterns. Washington Wizards basketball team jerseys with Mandarin characters. This National Basketball Association game came with a special tip of the cap to the upcoming Chinese New Year.
"This will actually be the jersey they wear on the court -in addition before the game -- the guys are all going to be wearing this shooting shirt," said Zak Grim, Washington Wizards Enterainment Director.
The marquee player, and star of the Wizards, all-star John Wall calls it a proud moment.
"It's an honor --a great honor -- especially internationally, and building a fan base over there," said John Wall, Washington Wizards.
The jerseys aren't cheap 110 U.S. dollars -- But, the team store says both jerseys, and the hats are selling well. It is a chance for the NBA to expand its brand, and tap into its largest market outside of the United States.
"China is a very big market for the NBA," an NBA official said.
He may have drawn some glances for his spiked hair. But Jeremy Lin, Taiwanese heritage has helped elevate Lin's stock overseas.
"Maybe they didn't know who john wall way.. Maybe they didn't know who bradley beale was -but now they know," Zak said.
That may be over-stating it a bit. So, we've heard from the players - what about the Wizards staff. Let's hear their best Chinese Happy New Year!
