A dragon dance was followed up by a martial arts display as part of the Chinese New Year celebration before Tuesday night's NBA basketball game between the Washington Wizards and the Golden State Warriors at the Verizon Center in Washington. "The NBA, as part of the popular and beloved platform of the mainstream society, could be a cultural platform to help disseminate Chinese culture," said Ruyi He, president of the Coordination Council of Chinese American Associations. A Year of the Ram stuffed animal also was given to audience members. LIU CHANG / FOR CHINA DAILY