CCTV sports channel of China Media Group said on Tuesday it would immediately suspend all cooperation with the National Basketball Association (NBA), including broadcasting of its games.

"We believe that any comments that challenge national sovereignty and social stability is not within the scope of freedom of speech," CCTV said on its social media account.

"To this end, CCTV's Sports Channel has decided to immediately suspend plans to broadcast the NBA preseason (China Games) and will immediately investigate all cooperation and communication involving the NBA."

(With input from AFP)