"Now, the basketball association is the only decision-maker, while (the clubs) have very limited influence on making any major rules, despite the presence of the committee. Usually, we just follow along with whatever they decide."

Begun as a State-run system in the 1990s, the CBA has retained full control of all major decisions, on everything from hiring a promotional agency to upgrading stadiums.

"I think it's time for some radical changes, like releasing all rights to the clubs. It's the time to establish a league council made up of the owners, like the NBA's board," Zhejiang Lions manager Ye Xiangyu told China Daily recently.

Many teams would prefer to extend the length of the season.

To guarantee enough preparation time for events like the Olympics and the World Championships, the CBA cut its season from 50 games to 32 in 2009. The move was made to appease the governing body, which places a premium on success in the Olympics.

With so little time to market the league, clubs and sponsors lose out on money from ticket sales, merchandising and promotional activities.

"It's like you made a movie with a huge budget, but they only allow you to screen it twice," Yao said. "That's bad for the investors."

Ye agreed with Yao, adding that most teams expect the season will be extended in the future.

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