Joe Tsai discusses ownership lessons in new book excerpt, reflects on Nets decisions
An excerpt quotes Tsai on the Harden trade, a proposed Jeremy Lin trade, and his decision to open a direct communication channel with fans; he reiterates the franchise goal of winning a championship.
In this brief: 3 sections 2 min read
— Says the Harden decision was made on his watch and drew fan ire.
— Recalls a 2018 proposed trade of Jeremy Lin and its potential fan backlash in Asia.
— Notes the episode taught him to better explain decisions to fans.
— Opened a Twitter (now X) account despite communications team objections.
— Promised to focus on sports topics rather than company politics or Alibaba.
— Framed direct communication as necessary to avoid third‑party interpretation.
— Describes need to "win a championship" and "prove ourselves."
— Calls NBA ownership a unique, prized role compared with other business positions.
— Positions sports investments as part of broader strategic interests for Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment.