Dan Harris at the China Law blog Group on LinkedIn posed a fun question:

Why is China so mediocre in team sports like basketball and soccer, and what does that mean, if anything, for business in China?

I answered:

“Well, I’ve done exhaustive research in China about this very subject, having talked with several taxi drivers in China about what they thought! ^_^ Interestingly, their consensus is that the players just don’t play well together. One fellow told me the players were always quarreling, and never wanted to work together. A Chinese businessman told me the environment of corruption in which football in China has been stunted only emphasizes the mercenary aspect of the sport for Chinese players and officials. It would be impossible for a team to grow up mentally and spiritually fit in such a condition.

“I also think the sports in which China has excelled typically have great government machines behind them that pluck children from their families at a very early age to mold the children’s bodies and temperaments. Most of the sports, though, involve single players.The only team sport I am aware of the Chinese have excelled at through this model is women’s volley ball.”

“I see the lack of cooperation between Chinese daily; let’s face it, with so many people vying for limited resources it’s no wonder it’s one of the most competitive societies in the world. Local governments do not coordinate investment policies; employees will not give advantage to coworkers who may be able to take their jobs; and suppliers are only happy to cut corners fully well knowing their actions may spoil cooperation with other suppliers and customers.

“Though Chinese society and business culture would not have to change in order for the Chinese to cultivate a winning football team, it sure wouldn’t hurt.”

The discussion thread is fun and insightful, a good read. Check it out.