Ready for the NBA Debut! Cui Yongxi: A Rising Star After Six Long Years for Chinese Players

The Brooklyn Nets’ official Twitter account shared a significant moment for Chinese basketball fans: a photo of Cui Yongxi boarding the team bus, ready to head to Atlanta for the season opener against the Hawks. This marks an exciting chapter for both Cui and Chinese basketball, as he is set to travel with the Nets for the season opener and potentially a few more games before reporting to the G League on November 8th. This means that during this period, Cui could be activated and make his NBA regular-season debut.

The last Chinese player to appear in an NBA regular-season game was Zhou Qi, who played for the Houston Rockets on October 31, 2018. Zhou only played for one minute, but managed to make his only field goal attempt, scoring 2 points without any other statistical contributions. For many Chinese basketball fans, it’s been a long wait to see another player from China get a chance to prove themselves in the NBA. Now, with Cui Yongxi’s opportunity, the excitement is palpable.

In the preseason, Cui had limited playing time, featuring in two games and averaging 3 points and 1.5 rebounds per game. His shooting stats weren’t stellar, going 2-for-7 from the field (29%) and 1-for-3 from beyond the arc (33%). However, comparing his stats to some other young players like Bronny James, who averaged 4.2 points with shooting percentages of 28.6% from the field and 8.3% from three-point range in the preseason, the gap isn’t enormous. Bronny, despite his struggles, still played around three minutes in the Lakers’ season opener and managed to attempt two shots. With this in mind, there’s no reason to doubt that Cui could potentially see similar opportunities if the circumstances align in his favor.

However, it's important to recognize that opportunities in the NBA are often tied to various factors, including a player's background and marketability. While Bronny James has the significant advantage of being the son of LeBron James, Cui Yongxi’s path is far less cushioned. His NBA debut might not come as quickly or easily, but the possibility of seeing him on the court for Brooklyn is still there. If it doesn’t happen in the opening game, it wouldn't be surprising given the competitive nature of NBA rotations.

The Journey So Far: Cui Yongxi's Preseason Performance and Beyond

Cui’s preseason numbers might not jump off the page, but the experience alone is invaluable. In his two appearances, he averaged 3 points and 1.5 rebounds, shooting 29% from the field and 33% from three-point range. These are modest numbers, but for a young player trying to find his footing in the world's most competitive basketball league, they offer a glimpse of his potential.

It’s worth noting that many rookies, particularly international players, struggle initially as they adjust to the NBA’s speed, physicality, and style of play. Bronny James, for example, also had a rough preseason with shooting numbers that didn’t stand out. But thanks to his pedigree, he still earned minutes in the Lakers’ season opener. While Cui doesn't have the same high-profile background, his work ethic, skill, and determination are what will ultimately determine his NBA fate.

In comparison, fellow Asian player Yuki Kawamura, also on a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, is in a similar situation. Both Cui and Kawamura were given overall ratings of 67 in the latest update of NBA 2K25, while Bronny James received a rating of 68. These ratings reflect the raw potential of these young talents but also highlight that they are still viewed as developing players in the league.

When Cui saw his NBA 2K character model, he likely felt disappointed. The in-game version didn’t resemble him much, and it’s fair to assume that he’s eager to prove himself in real life, where it truly matters. For Asian players like Cui and Kawamura, there is a certain level of bias or indifference when it comes to media representation, but all of that will change as they begin to make their mark on the court.

The Long Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

As a rookie from China, Cui Yongxi faces numerous challenges, but his chance to be part of the NBA season opener is already a victory in itself. The reality for international players, particularly from Asia, is that they often have to work twice as hard to prove themselves. They face scrutiny not only from fans and media but also from coaches and teammates who might not be familiar with their backgrounds or potential.

Cui’s first few months in the NBA will be crucial for his development. While he is expected to spend time with the G League affiliate, the Brooklyn Nets may call on him to fill in during the regular season due to injuries or roster adjustments. Every minute on the NBA floor will be a learning experience for Cui, and with each game, he’ll have the chance to grow and show that he belongs in the league.

Looking back at Zhou Qi’s brief NBA stint, it serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of motivation for Cui. Zhou struggled to find his place in the Rockets’ system and was eventually waived, but he still carved out a respectable career in China and on the international stage. For Cui, the goal is not only to make it to the NBA but to stay and thrive. He’ll need to adapt quickly, stay healthy, and seize every opportunity that comes his way.

One aspect working in Cui’s favor is the modern NBA’s emphasis on versatile wing players. At 6’7”, Cui fits the mold of a modern forward capable of guarding multiple positions and contributing on both ends of the floor. His shooting needs improvement, but his athleticism and defensive potential give him a solid foundation to build on. If he can develop a reliable jump shot and improve his decision-making, there’s no reason why Cui can’t find a role in the league.

A New Hope for Chinese Basketball

For Chinese basketball fans, the anticipation surrounding Cui Yongxi’s potential NBA debut is immense. It has been six long years since a Chinese player last stepped foot on an NBA court, and the excitement is understandable. The legacy of Chinese basketball greats like Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian still looms large, and fans are eager to see the next generation of talent carry the torch.

Cui has the potential to be that next star. While his journey is just beginning, he’s already shown that he has the talent and determination to make it in the NBA. The pressure is undoubtedly high, but Cui has handled the spotlight well so far. His transition from playing in China to joining one of the NBA’s most storied franchises is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Chinese basketball has evolved significantly since Yao Ming first entered the league, and Cui represents a new wave of talent that could further strengthen the country’s basketball presence on the global stage. If Cui can establish himself in the NBA, it would not only inspire the next generation of Chinese players but also reinforce the importance of international talent in the league.

As the season opener approaches, all eyes will be on Cui Yongxi. Whether or not he plays significant minutes remains to be seen, but the fact that he’s even in this position speaks volumes about his potential. For Chinese basketball fans, the wait for another NBA player has been long, but with Cui, the future looks bright. Here’s to hoping that his NBA journey is just beginning and that we’ll be hearing his name in the league for many years to come.