Rise of the underdog

Shanxi Loongs forward Zhang Ning, also a product of the collegiate system, rising Beijing Ducks star Zeng Fanbo, and league leader Zhejiang Golden Bulls' towering center Yu Jiahao are among those intriguing prospects. It is hoped they can form the foundation of China's national program in the future.

After struggling to earn minutes in his rookie year, Zhang's prolific 3-point shooting and tough defense on the perimeter has transformed him into one of the best 3-and-D players in the league. So far, he is averaging 17.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.4 steals in his third CBA season.

Relying on the strong presence of Zhang and veteran shooting guard Yuan Shuai, Shanxi finished the first phase in second position in the league standings.

"I said last year after losing to Liaoning in the playoffs that we'd like to be up there to see the game on the higher level. I meant it and we did it this year," said Zhang, a 25-year-old former Peking University captain who was selected eighth overall by Shanxi in the 2020 draft.

"The desire to step up our game has inspired myself and the whole team to prepare for the new season with hard work and focus. I am really proud that I lived up to my words and we will keep going."

The league now takes a break as Team China readies for Asian qualifiers for the 2023 FIBA World Cup. China faces Iran on Nov 11 and Bahrain three days later in Teheran.

Due to the early deadline (Oct 5) of roster registration before the CBA season started, Team China head coach Du Feng omitted some of the outstanding early-season performers from his 17-man training squad this week, yet he insists that the door is always open to in-form players, regardless of age.

"This season has seen a lot of young players come up big and make great progress. As coach of the national team, I take pride and confidence seeing that happen," said Du, also coach of 11-time CBA champion the Guangdong Southern Tigers.

"We've established a fluid talent pool system with the CBA and will keep an eye on the improvement of all the young players to call them up whenever they are ready.

"The future of the national team relies on the development of young players. I think we've done a good job nurturing them in the league."

sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn