Montrezl Harrell Joins Zhejiang! A Former Clippers Star Takes His Talents to CBA

The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) is set to witness another major shake-up as Montrezl Harrell officially signs with Zhejiang. The former NBA Sixth Man of the Year is bringing his aggressive inside presence and relentless energy to a league that is becoming increasingly competitive. With the third phase of the CBA season approaching, many teams are pulling out all the stops in securing top-tier talent, and Zhejiang has just made a power move that could reshape the championship race.

Harrell’s Journey: From NBA Sixth Man to CBA Contender

Montrezl Harrell is no stranger to high-level basketball. At 31 years old, he has spent years in the NBA showcasing his skillset, primarily as an explosive bench presence who thrives in the paint. Averaging 12.1 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists over his NBA career, Harrell's most notable season came in 2019-20 when he played for the LA Clippers and earned the prestigious NBA Sixth Man of the Year award.

Harrell’s high-energy, undersized center playstyle made him a fan favorite in the NBA. Standing at 6'7", he often went up against taller opponents but made up for his lack of height with sheer power, hustle, and efficiency. In the 2020-21 season, he played a key role for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 13.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game while shooting a remarkable 62.2% from the field.

However, after bouncing between several NBA teams, including the Washington Wizards and Philadelphia 76ers, Harrell found himself looking for new opportunities. He took his talents to Australia’s NBL, playing for the Adelaide 36ers, where he put up solid numbers—averaging 12.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. His recent playoff performance, where he recorded 17 points and 14 rebounds in a loss to the South East Melbourne Phoenix, proved that he still has plenty left in the tank.

Now, he is set to take on a new challenge in the CBA, joining a Zhejiang team that is determined to push for a championship.

Zhejiang’s Bold Move: A Game-Changer in the CBA Title Race

The signing of Montrezl Harrell signals Zhejiang’s ambition to break through in an increasingly competitive CBA landscape. The league has evolved beyond the dominance of traditional powerhouses like the Liaoning Flying Leopards and Guangdong Southern Tigers. This season, multiple teams—including Guangsha, Shanxi, Qingdao, and Beijing—are in serious contention for the title.

Zhejiang’s front office clearly understands that winning in today’s CBA requires a combination of talent, experience, and physicality. By bringing in Harrell, they add a proven scorer, a relentless rebounder, and a fierce competitor who thrives in high-pressure situations. Given his NBA pedigree, Harrell is expected to make an immediate impact, bringing a level of intensity that could tip the scales in Zhejiang’s favor.

What makes this acquisition even more impressive is that Zhejiang managed to secure Harrell without much prior speculation. Unlike some other big-name imports who have been rumored for weeks, Harrell’s signing came as a surprise, demonstrating Zhejiang’s ability to make swift and decisive moves in the transfer market.

Harrell’s Impact on the CBA

Harrell’s arrival is not just a boost for Zhejiang but also for the CBA as a whole. Over the years, the league has attracted numerous former NBA players, but many have either struggled to adapt or failed to live up to expectations. Harrell, however, appears to be a perfect fit for the CBA’s style of play—fast-paced, physical, and centered around strong inside scoring.

One of the biggest concerns for Zhejiang before this signing was their interior presence. With Harrell in the lineup, they now have a player who can dominate the paint, set physical screens, and provide much-needed toughness. His ability to finish around the rim and create second-chance opportunities through offensive rebounding will be invaluable.

Moreover, Harrell’s leadership and experience playing alongside superstars in the NBA could prove crucial in guiding Zhejiang through the playoffs. Younger players in the squad will benefit from his work ethic and veteran presence, helping the team develop a championship mindset.

The Changing Landscape of the CBA

Harrell’s signing is just one of many major moves happening in the CBA. The defending champions, Liaoning, have also strengthened their squad by adding big man Oliver, a solid interior force who previously played for Guangsha. Teams across the league are making aggressive roster adjustments, aiming to secure the best possible lineup for a deep playoff run.

Unlike previous seasons where Liaoning and Guangdong often dominated, the current CBA campaign has showcased a much more unpredictable and competitive race. Zhejiang’s decision to invest in Harrell highlights the growing trend of teams seeking high-level talent to gain an edge.

A Final Word on Harrell’s Decision

For Montrezl Harrell, this move represents a fresh chapter in his career. While some may see it as an exit from the NBA, it is more accurately a transition to a new challenge where he can still make a significant impact. The CBA is no longer just a retirement destination—it is a legitimate league with top-tier competition, growing fan engagement, and increasing financial incentives.

Harrell’s journey from the NBA to the NBL and now to the CBA is a testament to his adaptability and passion for the game. Whether or not this move leads to a future return to the NBA remains to be seen, but for now, Zhejiang fans can rejoice—because they just landed one of the most electrifying big men to ever grace the hardwood.