Alibaba Co-Founder Joe Tsai br Buys Brooklyn Netsbr .br It's official. The Brooklyn Nets br have a new owner.br .br The NBA's board of governors unanimously approved Tsai's purchase of the Nets on Wednesday.br .br Tsai spent almost $3.5 billion br for the team and arena, the Barclays Center.br .br The sale is a new record for a br U.S. sports franchise.br .br David Levy, former Turner Sports president, br was hired by Tsai as the new CEO.br .br In addition to being a passionate basketball fan, Joe is one of China's pre-eminent br internet, media and e-commerce pioneers.br , Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, via statement.br His expertise will be invaluable in the league's efforts to grow the game in China and other global markets.br , Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, via statement.br The Nets will play two preseason games in China against the Los Angeles Lakers next month.br .br NBA superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving br both signed with the Nets this offseason.