After a lengthy 2,189-day wait, a moment long anticipated by countless basketball fans from the Chinese mainland has finally come to fruition. Just a month after signing a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets, Cui Yongxi made his NBA debut against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday night for their home opener.
The excitement among supporters is entirely justified, as it has been six years since a player from the Chinese mainland last graced the NBA courts. With this appearance, Cui becomes the seventh player from the Chinese mainland to compete in a competitive NBA game, joining the ranks of Wang Zhizhi, Mengke Bateer, Yao Ming, Yi Jianlian, Sun Yue, and Zhou Qi.
Cui stepped onto the court with 1 minute and 58 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Shortly after his arrival, he drew a foul during a fast break, earning a trip to the free-throw line. Although his first attempt went awry, he seized the opportunity on his second try, marking his first point in the NBA. The last player from the Chinese mainland to score in the league was Zhou Qi, who was then with the Houston Rockets.
This milestone not only signifies Cui's personal achievement but also ignites hope and inspiration among aspiring basketball players in the Chinese mainland. As the global sports community watches, Cui's journey represents the growing interconnectivity and talent emerging from diverse regions worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
