Thank You, Liaoning! 67 Points, 17 Assists, 10 Rebounds in Two Games! Reclaiming the Title of China's Top Point Guard

Guo Ailun is back, and he's better than ever. Over the past two games, he has turned heads and reminded everyone why he was once the pride of Liaoning and the heart of China’s national basketball team. With a remarkable performance of 67 points, 17 assists, and 10 rebounds, Guo has not only shaken off the rust but also reclaimed his status as China’s premier point guard. And it’s all happening after Liaoning made the decision to trade him away—something that seems more like a gift than a loss for Guo and the team that now boasts him, the Guangzhou Long-Lions.

A Remarkable Rebirth in Guangzhou

It’s been a whirlwind year for Guo Ailun. Once considered one of the brightest stars in China’s basketball scene, his career seemed to hit a crossroads when Liaoning traded him to Guangzhou. At first, it seemed like a bold move—perhaps one with long-term benefits for the Liaoning Flying Leopards, who sought younger blood and a different direction. But as the dust settles and the trade ages, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the real winner here is Guo himself.

Guo Ailun’s new home in Guangzhou has been nothing short of transformative. After a period of stagnation, he’s found his rhythm again and is playing some of the best basketball of his career. His recent 40-point explosion against Beijing Enterprises was a statement game. He shot an incredible 13-of-25 from the field and added 4 rebounds and 5 assists. This was the Guo Ailun that fans in Liaoning had come to know and love, a leader who could take over games and fill the stat sheet in every way.

But this performance wasn’t a one-off. In his last two games alone, Guo has amassed 67 points, 17 assists, and 10 rebounds—a stat line that is a testament to his all-around skills and ability to impact the game in multiple facets. And let’s not forget his impressive free-throw shooting: 22-of-25 in the past two games. When Guo is on, he’s almost unstoppable, and it’s clear that he is reclaiming his spot as one of China’s top basketball players.

The Liaoning Trade: A Blessing in Disguise?

When Guo Ailun was traded from Liaoning to Guangzhou, many fans were left scratching their heads. How could Liaoning, a team that had relied so heavily on Guo in the past, let go of their star player? The trade brought back Wang Lancheng, another guard who had shown promise. But as the season has unfolded, it’s clear that the decision wasn’t as wise as it initially seemed.

Wang Lancheng, although talented, has struggled to fill Guo’s shoes. His numbers this season have been underwhelming, with averages of just 7.9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game—all career lows. Compare that to Guo’s recent resurgence, and it’s easy to see that Liaoning’s loss has been Guangzhou’s gain. Guo Ailun is back at his best, and he’s making sure everyone knows it.

The National Team and What’s Next for Guo

What makes this resurgence even more exciting is the possibility of Guo Ailun returning to the national team. After missing out on the 2023 World Cup due to injuries, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Guo will make his return to the Chinese national team for the upcoming FIBA Asia qualifiers. His recent form suggests that he should be a lock for the squad. With his performance in the CBA and his leadership abilities on display once again, Guo could be the spark the national team needs to compete on the international stage.

His case is an interesting one because, even though Guo has been sidelined from national duty for a while, he is still one of China’s top guards—if not the top guard. His ability to run an offense, score in bunches, and make plays for his teammates makes him invaluable to the team. It would be a mistake for China to overlook him as they look toward the future of their basketball program.

A Statement of Strength

Guo Ailun’s comeback is more than just a feel-good story—it’s a statement to everyone who doubted him. The trade, the injuries, the challenges—all of it only served to make him stronger. And as he continues to turn heads with his performances, the message is clear: Guo Ailun is back, and he’s not going anywhere.

His recent performances, including the 40-point explosion against Beijing Enterprises and his near triple-double performances, are a testament to his elite level of play. In a league full of talented players, Guo Ailun has made it clear that he’s still one of the best. And while Liaoning may have moved on from him, it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the basketball world recognizes the full extent of his talent once again.

Guo Ailun’s rise from the ashes should serve as an inspiration to every athlete who has ever faced adversity. When the going gets tough, the tough get going. And right now, Guo Ailun is proving just how tough he is.

So, thank you, Liaoning. Thanks for letting Guo Ailun go because now he’s back at the top of his game, and it’s clear that China’s basketball scene is better for it. Whether it’s in the CBA or on the international stage, Guo Ailun is showing the world that the best of him has yet to come.