Even the best got better

An influx of talent has spread through the CBA; but can someone knock off the powerhouses? Sun Xiaochen reports.

The 2011-2012 Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) tips off this Saturday and will boast special gifts from the United States that should expand its appeal. Thanks to the NBA lockout, a stream of star free agents have flown in from the West and will make the next four months one of the fiercest title races in the league's 17-year history. The 17 clubs have hired 17 foreign coaches (head and assistant) while drafting 33 foreign imports, including 12 NBA caliber players, as they attempt to challenge the reigning champions Guangdong Southern Tigers, who have won seven titles in the past eight years. Former New Jersey Nets forward Yi Jianlian's return will undoubtedly strengthen Guangdong while relieving its itch for another foreign player. Four-year NBA pro James Singleton, who averaged 21.1 points and 9.5 rebounds per game for Guangdong's final rival, Xinjiang, last season, was its only signing to date, but the team is in discussions with another potential import, Detroit Pistons guard Rodney Stuckey.

Unlike other clubs with thin Chinese rosters, Guangdong routinely counts on its local core, which includes veteran Zhu Fangyu, sharp shooter Wang Shipeng and budding forward Zhou Peng, who are all key pieces of the national team.