51 Points, 18 Rebounds! Eric Bledsoe Returns to Shanghai, Reunites with Wang Zhelin

Eric Bledsoe, a former NBA star known as "Mini LeBron," has officially rejoined the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), once again teaming up with Wang Zhelin, the team’s centerpiece. This move comes as a surprise to some, considering that just this past April, Bledsoe hinted at the possibility of retirement. However, his return marks a significant boost for a Shanghai squad desperate to turn its season around.

A Proven NBA Veteran

Bledsoe’s NBA pedigree is well-established. Selected as the 18th pick in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft, he was a dominant force during his peak years. In his time with the Phoenix Suns, he averaged over 20 points per game in consecutive seasons and earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team. His blend of athleticism, strength, and tenacity on both ends of the court earned him the nickname "Mini LeBron."

After leaving the NBA, Bledsoe brought his talents to the CBA in 2022, signing with Shanghai. His impact was immediate. In his debut season, he averaged 17.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.1 assists in just 22.9 minutes per game during the regular season. He also delivered one of the most electrifying performances in league history, recording 51 points, 18 rebounds, and 8 assists in a single game.

In the following season, Bledsoe maintained his strong form, averaging 15.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists in the regular season. He stepped up even more in the playoffs, contributing 21 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5 assists per game in 25.5 minutes.

Shanghai’s Struggles and Bledsoe’s Return

Initially, Shanghai Sharks had no plans to bring Bledsoe back for the 2023-24 season. The team aimed to upgrade its roster with new foreign talent, targeting Markelle Blackney and Treveon Graham. However, unforeseen circumstances derailed these plans. Blackney chose to sign with an Israeli club, while Graham was sidelined due to injury. Faced with a lack of reliable options, the Sharks turned to their familiar and proven veteran, Bledsoe, to fill the gap.

Bledsoe will join a revamped Shanghai roster for the CBA’s second phase. The team now features a four-foreign-player lineup, including Kenneth Lofton Jr., D.J. Wilson, Bledsoe, and Ryan Hawkins. This mix of two "big" and two "small" imports is expected to bring versatility and depth to the Sharks’ rotation.

A Dire Start to the Season

The first phase of the 2023-24 CBA season was nothing short of disastrous for Shanghai. The team managed just one win in 10 games, finishing with a dismal 1-9 record, ranking 17th in the league. This abysmal performance led to significant changes, including the dismissal of two head coaches.

However, there is newfound hope under the leadership of recently appointed head coach Lu Wei. In his first test at the helm, Lu guided Shanghai to an undefeated run in the club championship tournament, winning all four games and securing a spot in the next stage. While the real challenge lies ahead in the second phase of the CBA season, Lu’s early success has provided a glimmer of optimism.

The Return of Wang Zhelin

Adding to Shanghai’s woes in the first phase was the absence of their star player, Wang Zhelin. The 7-footer, who sustained a wrist injury in mid-October, was sidelined with a bone contusion and soft tissue damage, forcing him to miss most of the opening stage.

Wang’s absence was keenly felt. Despite playing only three games, he showcased his dominance with averages of 21 points and 6.7 rebounds per game while shooting an incredible 63.4% from the field. With Wang expected to return to action in the second phase, Shanghai will finally have their full arsenal available, giving the team a chance to climb out of the league’s basement.

Expectations for the Second Phase

With Bledsoe back in the fold and Wang Zhelin returning to full health, the Sharks are poised for a resurgence. The combination of Bledsoe’s experience and playmaking, Wang’s interior dominance, and the contributions of new additions like Lofton and Wilson could transform Shanghai into a competitive force.

However, the road to redemption won’t be easy. The Sharks must find their chemistry quickly and deliver consistent performances to make up for their poor start. For Bledsoe, this season represents another opportunity to prove his value, both as a leader and a high-level contributor. For Shanghai, it’s a chance to turn a disappointing campaign into a story of resilience and recovery.

As the CBA’s second phase tips off, all eyes will be on this revamped Shanghai squad. With Eric Bledsoe and Wang Zhelin leading the charge, the Sharks have the potential to make waves in the league and rewrite the narrative of their season.