Westbrook was meeting the press alongside Harden, who wore casual clothing, after debuting as a member of the Rockets in a pre-season game against the Toronto Raptors in Tokyo yesterday.

Chinese web users have applauded his ‘bravery’ in standing against the American values he was brought up with and the mounting criticism he is facing from home over his apology.

One fan gushed: ‘Wei Shao, add oil. Join Harden to get the NBA champion that belongs to you.’

Another reader complimented: ‘Wei Shao is the best point guard in history.’