Just prior to the upcoming regular season opener between the Washington and Texas men’s basketball teams in Shanghai on November 14, Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott, Alibaba Group Executive Chairman Jack Ma, Executive Vice Chairman Joe Tsai and University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce attended a Q&A board room session on Tuesday morning from the Alibaba campus in Hangzhou.

Alibaba Group Holding Limited, the world’s largest mobile and online commerce company, is the Pac-12’s presenting sponsor for the upcoming battle, which will be played at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai on Saturday morning at 11 a.m. The two-year partnership was originally announced in mid-May, representing a major first in the history of sports in China.

“I can’t think of a better partner than Alibaba,” Scott said. “It seems to me two of the most transformative things going on in society are really around education and technology. That is a great link between Alibaba and our schools.”

“China needs to play like a team,” Ma said. “Young people have to play like a team. … I’m very excited that you are bringing young people here, bringing your wonderful sports here. I want to continue to work with you to make sure that these sports, this relationship, this friendship continues.”

Following the meeting, athletes and team staff of the two US teams were arranged a practice at the Alibaba gym and a tour of the company's campus. 

Source: Pac-12