Since then, investors and city officials have sought to revive the Supersonics franchise by relocating another NBA team, and Hansen is confident the move will prove a success in the long-term.

CNN: Supersonics set for relaunch in Seattle

He is also confident Taiwan's institutions will prove resilient in the face of any untoward influence from Beijing.

WSJ: Interview with Ma Ying-jeou: Taiwan's D��tente Gamble

Leslie has not played since breaking an ankle in Scotland's World Cup clash with South Africa in October and although McGeechan admitted the player will have to do some strenuous work in training next week, he is confident the Wellington-born star will prove his fitness.

BBC: Scots opt for Kiwi captain