Han Xu to debut for NY Liberty against Chinese national team

NEW YORK - Chinese center Han Xu will debut for New York Liberty against the Chinese national team on Thursday night in Brooklyn.

Han, 19, is a little nervous, but looking forward to her first exhibit.

"I remember my debut for the Chinese national team against the American national team. This time, my first WNBA game will be a reverse one," Han said on Wednesday. "I am very relaxed and will come all out for the game. I hope I could find the chemistry with my new teammates."

Liberty coach Katie Smith revealed that Han will definitely play in the match and will play 20 minutes on court.

As to her training, Han said, "I came to New York on Sunday. Today was my third training session with the team. The facilities and the supporting team are fantastic. They care more about recovery and injuries.

"The WNBA is very physical, even in training. They are very aggressive, which I'm not used to. I need to improve my strength, and establish myself as a flexible and fast-paced center on the court."

Before she came, Han was a bit worried about the way to get along with the team. After two days, she worked well with her American teammates.

Tina Charles, who has played in the Chinese Women's Basketball Association (WCBA) recent years, believes Han is going to have a promising future, saying Han was one of the best players in the national senior and youth teams.

Coach Smith also heaped praise on Han for her strong understanding on basketball, fast learning and good commanding of English and basketball jargon.