BEIJING (ANN/CHINA DAILY) – Despite an abrupt end to his fledgling NBA career, China’s basketball star Cui Yongxi remains resolute in his pursuit of returning to the league, even after being waived by the Brooklyn Nets following a severe knee injury.
Cui, 21, suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during a G-League game on December 11, just as his career in the NBA was beginning to gain traction. Four days later, the Brooklyn Nets released him to accommodate new signings as part of a trade deal with the Golden State Warriors. The young forward had joined the Nets on a two-way contract in October, representing one of China’s brightest prospects in the league.
Despite this setback, Cui expressed unwavering optimism. “Once I come back stronger from the injury, I will not stop pursuing my NBA dream until the last bit of my energy burns out,” he wrote on social media.
Cui’s NBA journey began after two successful seasons with the Guangzhou Loong Lions in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he was named Rookie of the Year for the 2022-23 season. After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Cui participated in trials with six NBA teams, eventually earning a spot with the Portland Trail Blazers in the Summer League. His performance there led to a two-way contract with the Nets, allowing him to split time between the NBA and its developmental G-League.
Cui’s promising form was evident during a December 9 G-League game, where he scored 14 points, grabbed four rebounds, and made three steals in 24 minutes. However, just two days later, he sustained the devastating knee injury, ending his rookie season after appearing in only five NBA games and six G-League contests.
Recovery and determination
The Brooklyn Nets have committed to arranging ACL repair surgery for Cui and expect a full recovery. Similar injuries have sidelined top NBA players like Klay Thompson, but Cui’s agent, Li Qun, is optimistic. “A disciplined and ambitious talent like Cui has a very high chance of regaining full strength with proper surgery and rehabilitation,” Li said.
Cui himself is focused on overcoming the challenge. “Injuries are part of professional sports. I will face this with a positive mindset and prepare for surgery and rehabilitation with strong faith,” Cui said in a video posted on social media.
Unrealised hopes
Cui’s release comes as the Nets, in a rebuilding phase, adjusted their roster to include two-way players Reece Beekman, Jaylen Martin, and Tyrese Martin. The decision dashed Chinese fans’ hopes of seeing one of their own represent their country on basketball’s biggest stage.
Adding to the disappointment, Cui’s injury means he will miss the Nets’ preseason games against the Phoenix Suns in Macao next October, part of the NBA’s partnership with Sands China. The games had been highly anticipated by Chinese fans eager to see their homegrown talent in action.
Aiming for a comeback
Cui’s injury has been a bitter blow for both the player and his supporters, but his determination and youthful ambition suggest his NBA story is far from over. As he prepares for surgery and rehabilitation, Cui continues to inspire with his resilience, embodying the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity.
