Trail Blazers Announce! Cui Yongxi Ready for the NBA Again! China's Top Forward Shows His Talent...

Exciting news has emerged for Chinese basketball fans: Cui Yongxi has been confirmed for the Portland Trail Blazers' preseason training camp roster. His return to China was merely for a temporary break, unlike the case of Zeng Fanbo, who has struggled to find his footing in the NBA. According to prominent media sources, Cui Yongxi will head back to the United States in early August, meaning he will not participate in the two training camps for the Chinese national team scheduled for this summer. This situation underscores the unwavering support coach Guo Shiqiang has for his protégé.

Cui Yongxi's NBA Journey Continues

Cui Yongxi is not only set to join the Trail Blazers' training camp, but he is also expected to play in the preseason games. The Blazers announced their 2024-2025 preseason schedule at the end of July, with games against the Clippers, Kings, German club Ulm, and the Jazz starting on October 12. If Cui performs well in the preseason, he could potentially convert his Exhibit 10 contract into a two-way contract, officially paving his way to the NBA regular season.

During the recent Summer League, Cui Yongxi played three games, averaging 7.2 minutes per game and scoring 3 points with 0.3 assists. His shooting stats included 3 out of 7 from the field, 2 out of 5 from three-point range, and a perfect 1 out of 1 from the free-throw line, totaling 9 points in 21 minutes of play. Unfortunately, a calf strain prevented him from playing in the final Summer League game, where his playing time could have significantly increased.

Comparing Performances

For context, consider the Blazers' other Asian player, Lee Hyun-joong, who previously had limited playing opportunities. In the final Summer League game, Lee played 20 minutes, taking 11 shots (making 3), including 7 attempts from three-point range (missing all), and scoring 8 points with 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Lee's playing time in one game nearly matched Cui Yongxi's total minutes across three games, and his shot attempts were more than four times higher. This comparison highlights the missed opportunity for Cui to showcase his skills had he played in the final game.

European basketball and NBA draft expert Wang Jian noted, "Anyone who watched the games could see that Cui Yongxi outperformed Lee Hyun-joong by a significant margin." Despite the setback, Cui remains determined to look ahead and continue his journey in the NBA, carrying the hopes of Chinese basketball fans with him.

Analyzing Cui Yongxi's Strengths

Cui Yongxi's skill set makes him a standout player. As a forward, he brings a versatile game that includes scoring, rebounding, and defending. His ability to shoot from long range, combined with his athleticism and court vision, makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the court. These attributes were evident in his limited Summer League minutes, where he displayed efficiency and a high basketball IQ.

Cui's potential was recognized early in his career, and his transition to the NBA has been closely watched by scouts and analysts. His performance in the preseason training camp and games will be crucial in determining his role with the Trail Blazers. With the right development and opportunities, Cui Yongxi could become a significant contributor in the NBA, fulfilling the promise he showed in his early career.

The Support of Guo Shiqiang

Coach Guo Shiqiang's support for Cui Yongxi has been instrumental in his development. Known for his rigorous training methods and emphasis on discipline, Guo has helped shape Cui into a well-rounded player. Guo's decision to allow Cui to prioritize his NBA commitments over national team duties reflects his belief in Cui's potential and the long-term benefits of having a player develop at the highest level of competition.

Guo's approach contrasts with the more traditional stance of prioritizing national team commitments over individual career development. This progressive mindset is crucial for the growth of Chinese basketball, allowing players to gain international experience and improve their skills against top-tier competition.

Looking Ahead

Cui Yongxi's journey is a source of inspiration for many young Chinese athletes. His dedication, talent, and the support he receives from coaches and fans alike highlight the potential for Chinese players to succeed on the global stage. As Cui prepares for the upcoming preseason, the focus will be on his performance and his ability to secure a spot on the Trail Blazers' regular-season roster.

The excitement surrounding Cui's participation in the NBA preseason games is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will fare against tough competition. His success could pave the way for more Chinese players to pursue careers in the NBA, furthering the development of basketball in China.

In conclusion, Cui Yongxi's inclusion in the Portland Trail Blazers' preseason training camp marks a significant milestone in his career. With his talent, work ethic, and the unwavering support of his coaches and fans, Cui is poised to make a strong impression and continue his journey in the NBA. The hope is that he will not only succeed individually but also inspire a new generation of Chinese basketball players to strive for excellence on the global stage.