35 Points, 10 Assists: Another Hot Candidate for China's Basketball Naturalization

The debate around naturalizing foreign players for the Chinese men’s basketball team has recently heated up again. While past discussions largely revolved around two standout candidates—Tianjin’s James and Qingdao’s Powell—a new name has entered the conversation: Kyle Fogg, the dynamic guard who has been instrumental in Liaoning’s recent CBA dominance.

Fogg’s Impressive Resume

Fogg has been a cornerstone of Liaoning’s success, helping the team secure three consecutive championships and earning Finals MVP honors. Known for his professionalism, versatility, and stellar performances, Fogg has built a strong reputation in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). Teammate Zhao Jiwei has even described him as the best teammate he’s ever had.

This season, Fogg has continued to shine, averaging:

• 27.5 points
• 5.4 rebounds
• 5.7 assists
• 2 steals

His efficiency is equally remarkable, shooting 50.3% from the field and 41.5% from beyond the arc. In one standout performance, Fogg tallied 35 points and 10 assists, proving he remains a game-changing force even at age 34.

Why Fogg Makes Sense for China

Naturalizing Fogg offers a range of benefits for the Chinese national team. Unlike some foreign players who might struggle to integrate, Fogg has spent years in the CBA and already has a strong rapport with his Chinese teammates. His selfless style of play, ability to both lead and support, and willingness to handle tough, physical assignments make him an ideal fit.

More importantly, Fogg’s skill set directly addresses some of the Chinese national team’s most glaring issues, including a lack of consistent perimeter scoring and playmaking under pressure. His ability to handle the ball, create opportunities for teammates, and score efficiently would bring much-needed stability to the squad.

The Challenges of Naturalizing Fogg

While Fogg’s talent and character make him an attractive candidate, the process of naturalizing him is not without complications. The primary hurdle stems from his previous international experience. In 2020, Fogg represented the United States in the FIBA AmeriCup, averaging 13 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 6 assists per game.

Under FIBA regulations, players who have competed for one national team are generally ineligible to represent another without special clearance. In Fogg’s case, both FIBA and USA Basketball would need to grant approval for him to switch allegiance to China.

However, there is reason for optimism. Examples like Eric Gordon’s recent transition to the Bahamas illustrate that such clearances are possible. Gordon, who played for Team USA in the 2010 FIBA World Cup, successfully joined the Bahamas’ national team last year, even helping them nearly qualify for the Paris Olympics. Fogg’s lower profile in the United States and China’s lack of competitive overlap with Team USA could further simplify the process.

Comparisons to Other Candidates

While James and Powell remain strong options, Fogg stands out for his proven track record in China. James, a dominant big man for Tianjin, has earned widespread admiration for his physicality and consistency. Powell, on the other hand, has openly expressed his enthusiasm for representing China, recently joining Qingdao and quickly becoming a fan favorite.

However, Fogg’s familiarity with Chinese basketball culture and his deep connection with domestic players give him a unique edge. Unlike Powell, who is still adapting to the league, or James, whose style of play might require significant adjustments, Fogg is already a seamless fit.

Timing is Key

With the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifying cycle fast approaching, time is of the essence for the Chinese Basketball Association. Replacing Kyle Anderson, the current naturalized player, with a new candidate will require swift action to navigate the bureaucratic and logistical challenges of naturalization.

Fogg’s age—34—is a potential drawback, but his durability and performance suggest he has plenty left in the tank. If the CBA acts quickly, Fogg could significantly elevate China’s competitiveness on the international stage.

As the Chinese men’s basketball team looks to reclaim its former glory, the addition of a player like Fogg could prove to be a transformative move. Whether he becomes the final choice remains uncertain, but the discussion surrounding his candidacy underscores the pressing need for strategic decisions to strengthen the team’s roster.