Derek Chang to step down as CEO of NBA China

Derek Chang will step down as the CEO of NBA China, it was announced today by NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum.

Chang, who has been in his current role since June 2018, will continue to lead NBA China through May 15, 2020, after which he will return to his family in London.  A search for a new CEO of NBA China is underway.

"We are thankful for Derek’s many contributions leading our business and colleagues in China, including during a time of unprecedented challenges," said Tatum.  "Derek’s vast sports and media experience led to new and expanded partnerships with some of China’s most recognizable companies.  We wish him and his family all the best."

"It’s been a privilege to be part of the NBA family and to experience firsthand the excitement that fans in China have for the game of basketball and the NBA," said Chang.  "I am very proud of what we were able to accomplish over the last two years and wish my colleagues well going forward."

During Chang’s tenure, the NBA expanded its partnerships with Tencent, Alibaba and Vivo and launched new partnerships with digital media companies ByteDance and China Mobile Migu.  Under Chang’s leadership the league opened the largest NBA Store outside North America, in Beijing, the world’s first NBA Center, an NBA-themed lifestyle complex in Tianjin, as well as eight other interactive NBA-themed destinations across the country for fans of all ages.  Chang also managed the league’s long-standing relationships with CCTV and BesTV and oversaw four NBA China Games in 2018 and 2019.

Prior to joining the NBA, Chang held senior executive positions with Scripps Networks Interactive, DIRECTV, Charter Communications, the YES Network and TCI Communications and served on the board of directors of Starz after its public spin-off.

Chang holds an MBA from Stanford University and a bachelor’s degree in history from Yale University.  He was named one of Cablefax Magazine’s "Top 100 Executives in Cable" and one of the "50 Most Influential People in Sports Business" by Sports Business Journal.