Walking tall once again

Rebirth

Her return began quietly, without fanfare.

Last season, she left Shanxi Flame after nine years and joined Xinjiang Magic Deer. The transition coincided with her ongoing physical rebuilding and a team still trying to find its shape.

The turning point came in the offseason, when she trained under former China women's national team head coach Zheng Wei with the Guangdong squad for China's 15th National Games. Immersed in high-intensity competition throughout the summer, she went through a physically demanding, but transformative period that gradually restored both her fitness and confidence, ultimately helping her team win the title.

By the 2025-26 WCBA season, Xinjiang had emerged as one of the league's surprise contenders.

Led by veterans including Wu, Wang Xuemeng and Zhang Qifang, the team steadily advanced through the season and into the semifinals.

Wu played a central role, averaging 17 points and 8.9 assists per game, while serving as both the primary initiator and offensive organizer.

"I thought I would improve, but I didn't expect these awards," she said. "It's an affirmation. I'm grateful to my teammates."

Before each game, her primary wish is simply to come through unscathed, but once the ball is tipped, caution disappears and competitive instinct takes over.