Standing at 2.08 meters tall, David Muoka has made history as the first basketball player born and raised in Hong Kong to sign an NBA contract with the Portland Trail Blazers.The 23-year-old athlete of Nigerian and British descent honed his skills at West Island School before pursuing his collegiate career at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Muoka's journey to the NBA included a stint with the Long Island Nets in the G League, where he averaged 4.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game across 38 appearances. His signing with the Trail Blazers marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong basketball and opens up new possibilities for aspiring players in the region.
Â
The Exhibit 10 contract signed by David Muoka with the Portland Trail Blazers offers unique benefits and opportunities:
One-year, minimum salary agreement with potential bonus of up to $77,500 if Muoka spends at least 60 days with the Blazers' G League affiliate
Possibility of conversion to a two-way contract before the regular season begins
No impact on the team's salary cap unless converted to a standard contract
Allows the Trail Blazers to retain Muoka's G League rights if he is waived
This type of contract provides a pathway for Muoka to showcase his skills in the G League while maintaining a connection to the NBA team, potentially leading to further opportunities with the Trail Blazers or other NBA organizations.
Â
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Hong Kong, challenging soccer as the leading sport. The city boasts over 450 public basketball courts, with additional facilities in schools and sports centers. Participation rates are highest among youth aged 7-12 (95.6%), gradually decreasing with age. However, barriers to participation include limited facility availability during peak hours and insufficient public sports facilities to meet demand. The government has invested in infrastructure development, allocating HK$32 billion for the Kai Tak Sports Park and HK$5 billion to the Elite Athletes Development Fund. Various organizations, including the Hong Kong Basketball Academy and FIBA China, have launched youth training programs to foster talent and increase engagement in the sport.
Â
The Hong Kong Golden Bulls have shown mixed results in recent games, with a 5-5 record in their last 10 matches. Notable victories include wins against Wuhan Kunpeng (101-99), Jiangsu Yannan Suke (128-95), and Shijiazhuang Xianglan (100-92). Despite consistent offensive performance, averaging over 95 points per game, the team has struggled defensively, conceding high scores in several losses. The Bulls compete in the Southern Conference of China's National Basketball League (NBL), facing teams from Guangxi, Jiangxi, Changsha, and Wuhan. With the new season starting June 15, the Bulls will benefit from increased home games and the ability to field three imported players per match, including notable additions like Cameron Oliver and Dominique Jones.
David Muoka’s historic signing with the Portland Trail Blazers not only elevates his personal journey but also marks a transformative moment for basketball in Hong Kong. His achievement exemplifies the potential for local talent to reach the global stage, inspiring a new generation of players in a city where the sport’s popularity is steadily growing. While challenges like facility shortages and barriers to participation remain, investments in infrastructure and youth development programs are laying the groundwork for a thriving basketball culture. With the Hong Kong Golden Bulls poised for a competitive 2025 season and Muoka serving as a beacon of possibility, the future of basketball in Hong Kong holds immense promise. Aspiring players and supporters alike are reminded that with determination and support, international success is within reach, offering a rallying call to nurture and celebrate the region’s talent.
