17 NBA players make tens of millions off sneakers made with Chinese slave labor cotton

Boston Celtics center Enes Kanter Freedom reacts to Warriors part-owner Chamath Palihapitiya's comments on violence against Uyghur Muslims and discusses the NBA's economic ties with China.

Enes Kanter Freedom’s opposition to China’s nefarious labor practices and enslavement of Uyghur Muslims has been a recent narrative covered by the media — courtesy of the player’s determination.

Behind the scenes, China’s violations of human rights have long been a topic of contention for major U.S. companies and the NBA — making their silent opposition to doing business with China an ongoing two-faced partnership.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler, left, looks to get around Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 31, 2021, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)

Kanter Freedom reposted a report by ESPN that listed a roster of 17 NBA athletes currently dealing with Chinese brands that source their materials in China’s Xinjiang region.

The region has been the focus of human rights advocacy. Reportedly "more than a million Uyghurs and other minorities are held in detention camps" in Xinjian, highlighted by ESPN’s Mike Fish and Michael A. Fletcher.

Five of the major Chinese brands using the slave labor-generated materials from the region are Li-Ning, Anta, Peak and 361 Degrees. NBA All-Stars Klay Thompson, Jimmy Butler and D’Angelo Russell join the list of players that signed deals with the divisive brands.

Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) runs downcourt after scoring against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half of an NBA basketball game in San Francisco, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022.  (AP Photo/John Hefti)

The NBA’s annual