The NBA returned to state-run television in China after nearly a three-year ban on the eve of the current playoffs. The return was quiet and not publicized by the NBA or China.

Most NBA owners stayed silent throughout the ban that was sparked by a Tweet of support for protesters in Hong Kong by Daryl Morey.

In addition to the money their teams derive from the NBA's $5 billion business in China, many have significant personal stakes there through their other businesses.

ESPN has examined the investments of 40 principal owners and found they collectively have more than $10 billion tied up in China.

BA China is valued at approximately $5 billion, and the NBA owns 90% of the entity (ESPN owns a 5% stake and several state-controlled banks collectively own the rest). That would put the China value of each of the league's 30 teams at an estimated $150 million.

Nets owner Tsai, by virtue of his role with Alibaba, has by far the highest percentage of his net worth -- 53.5% -- tied to China, according to Strategy Risks.