Alibaba's chief talks strategy and his fondness for NBA 'Killer'

We have already built a very solid foundation in e-commerce, said Daniel Zhang

On September 10, Daniel Zhang, a little-known former accountant, will take over the chairman’s role at Alibaba Group from Jack Ma, the country’s most famous businessman. A full story on him and his strategy is in this week’s Bloomberg Businessweek. Below are excerpts from an extended interview with Zhang at the company’s headquarters, lightly edited for clarity. The 47-year-old was full of surprises, from the rationale for his controversial expansions to his fondness for the National Basketball Assn. and a player he sees as a “killer.” He spoke in English.

On how Alibaba will change as he takes over the chairman’s