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A LeBron James jersey burns during a rally in Hong Kong.Credit:Getty

James has often spoken out on social and political matters,with some expressing dismay that this time he seemed to be more concerned about protecting his own brand and financial interests in China,where he enjoys enormous popularity.

"I've always been welcomed with open arms,"James said.

"I've been to China probably 15 to 20 times ... to have this beautiful game that we all love to be able to bring people together in the most positive way."

A demonstrator stomps on a LeBron James jersey during the rally.Credit:AP

That is not the case right now.

Protesters in Hong Kong on Tuesday trampled on James'jerseys,burning one,and threw basketballs at a photo of the four-time NBA MVP - a global sports icon whose image has taken a clear hit.

Among James'comments on Monday night,his first publicly shared thoughts on the matter,he said of Morey's tweet:"So many people could have been harmed,not only financially but emotionally,physically and spiritually."

That fanned the fallout fire,including from US lawmakers who said they believed the NBA's primary goal had been to protect the league's massive financial interest when it comes to its relationship with China instead of more vigorously defending Morey's right to free speech.