From Beijing:

Nike on Thursday apologised for a “blasphemous” television commercial which was banned by China after a wave of protest, saying it was only intended to inspire courage among youngsters.

China imposed a nationwide ban on the advert which featured United States basketball star LeBron James defeating a kung fu master, two women in traditional Chinese attire and a pair of dragons, considered a sacred symbol in Chinese culture.

“Nike regrets the ‘Chamber of Fear’ television advertisement which has caused concern among some consumers,” the US sports manufacturer said in a statement.

“Nike did not intend… to offend the people of China or show disrespect to the Chinese culture,” it said.

“Nike hoped to inspire courage, individual style and expression in young basketball players throughout Asia.”

Don’t Nike’s bone-headed execs know what happens to people who exhibit courage, individual style, and expression in China? Get a clue, suits.