New York (AFP) – The Brooklyn Nets announced on Friday the signing of Chinese free agent forward Cui Yongxi to a two-way contract, marking a significant step for the 21-year-old basketball player from Nanning.

Cui Yongxi, who recently showcased his skills in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas with the Portland Trail Blazers, is now set to split his time between the Brooklyn Nets and their G-League affiliate during the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. Despite going undrafted in the NBA Draft, Cui played three games as a reserve for Portland, demonstrating his potential to make an impact at the professional level.

Prior to his move to the NBA, Cui spent two impressive seasons with the Guangzhou Loong Lions in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). Over 99 career games, he averaged 14.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His shooting accuracy was notable, boasting a 45.3% success rate from the floor and 36.2% from beyond the arc. Last season, Cui led the Lions in points, rebounds, and steals, earning him a spot on the CBA Domestic First Team.

Cui’s journey has also seen him represent China in international competition, including participation in last year’s Basketball World Cup. His development was furthered by his time at the NBA Global Academy in Canberra, Australia, an institution known for nurturing international talent.

With his signing, Cui Yongxi joins the ranks of Jeremy Lin and Yi Jianlian as players of Chinese heritage to have played for the Brooklyn Nets. This signing not only highlights Cui’s growing career but also emphasizes the increasing global reach of the NBA.