Official Signing of the 63-Point Phenomenon! Farewell, Li Kyle! This is Who Truly Fits China's National Team…

China's national basketball team recently announced its second training camp roster for the summer, comprising 20 players. The selection has sparked widespread criticism and debate, with many fans and analysts taking to their keyboards to express their dissatisfaction. The most notable shift has been under the leadership of Gong Luming, who replaced Yao Ming’s invitation-based system with a selection-based approach. While some see this as a step backward, others argue that any change is better than stagnation, and time will ultimately determine its success.

The Current Roster and Future Challenges

The current roster includes all eligible players except Lin Wei, who has been blacklisted by coach Guo Shiqiang. The team is preparing for the FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers in November (against Guam and Mongolia) and February next year (against Japan), as well as the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Realistically, while qualifying for the 2027 World Cup is achievable with domestic talent, making a significant impact at the 2028 Olympics remains a daunting challenge. Furthermore, despite denials from Li Kyle and his team, it’s widely believed that he will no longer represent China. The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) has long talked about naturalizing an NBA-level point guard, but there has been little progress.

The Case for Naturalization

Naturalizing players doesn’t necessarily mean looking to the NBA. Many national teams worldwide naturalize players from their domestic leagues. Japan has Rui Hachimura and Yuta Watanabe; Spain has Lorenzo Brown; and the United States has Joel Embiid. The CBA could follow this model by considering naturalization candidates from its league, which offers the benefits of familiarity and established chemistry.

One standout candidate is Tianjin’s James. His third child was born in China, and he has expressed a desire to become a Chinese citizen and potentially play for the national team. Despite being only 6'8" (203 cm), James boasts impressive athleticism, strong defensive skills, and a keen sense for rebounding. Offensively, he is versatile and polished, capable of scoring inside and out. Last season, he averaged 26.5 points, 13 rebounds, and shot approximately 37% from beyond the arc, including a remarkable game where he scored 63 points and grabbed 21 rebounds.

A Proven Performer

James is not just a high scorer but a consistent and reliable performer. He played all 52 games for Tianjin last season and then continued to play in Puerto Rico, where he participated in 38 games, averaging 16.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. After his stint in Puerto Rico, James will return to Tianjin for his third CBA season, having already signed a new contract, making him the first foreign player to be re-signed this offseason. His commitment and performance have made him a beloved figure in the league.

The Perfect Fit

Despite not fitting the CBA’s initial plan for an NBA-level guard, James is an ideal naturalization candidate. His willingness to embrace Chinese nationality and his proven track record in the CBA make him a compelling option. His physical attributes and playing style align well with the needs of the Chinese national team, and his familiarity with the local basketball culture ensures a smooth transition.

Criticism and Controversy

The shift from an invitation-based system to a selection-based approach under Gong Luming has been met with mixed reactions. Critics argue that it undermines Yao Ming’s previous reforms, while supporters believe it is necessary to rejuvenate the team. The exclusion of Lin Wei, despite his talent, has also been a point of contention. However, the inclusion of players like James could potentially mitigate some of these criticisms.

The Road Ahead

With the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, the Chinese national team needs to make strategic decisions to enhance its competitiveness. Naturalizing players like James could provide the team with the necessary boost. His ability to perform consistently, coupled with his commitment to China, makes him a valuable asset. The CBA should consider this pragmatic approach to naturalization, leveraging domestic league talent to strengthen the national team.

Embracing Change

While the future of Chinese basketball may be uncertain, embracing change and making bold decisions could pave the way for success. The inclusion of players like James represents a step towards a more dynamic and competitive national team. It’s not just about talent but also about the willingness to adapt and evolve.

Conclusion

The announcement of James as a potential naturalized player for the Chinese national team signifies a new chapter in Chinese basketball. His skills, dedication, and familiarity with the CBA make him an ideal candidate to help elevate the team’s performance on the international stage. As China prepares for upcoming international competitions, the inclusion of players like James could be the key to unlocking new levels of success.