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Mike Chan

Chinese basketball prospect Zeng Fanbo was waived by the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday, just days after the team concluded its NBA China Games in Macau.
Zeng, who was included in the match day squad in only one of three Nets’ pre-season games so far, played 10 minutes off the bench against the Phoenix Suns in the first of two games at The Venetian Arena.
The 22-year-old recorded one steal and three fouls while not attempting any shots.
Zeng’s management team said the Harbin native would remain in the United States to continue his recovery from a serious back injury and thanked fans for their support and care along the way.
“Being able to stand on the court of the NBA pre-season game and wear an NBA jersey was an extremely valuable experience for Zeng,” the statement read. “He was dealt a serious injury in his back and waist in late April, severely affecting his original off-season plans.
“Zeng has put all his efforts into his dream. It takes courage to stand on the court again. I hope everyone will support and encourage him.”

With the Exhibit 10 contract Zeng signed with the Nets in August, the Chinese international could head to the G League to play for the Long Island Nets.
The 6ft 10in (2.08m) forward is eligible for a bonus of up to US$85,300 (HK$663,135) if he spends at least 60 days with Brooklyn’s affiliate team.
Just last month, Mfon Udofia, head coach of the Long Island Nets, spoke highly of Zeng, praising him as a “really good human being”.
“From the basketball side, really good skill set, can shoot the ball. Athleticism is really good,” he said. “So it’s exciting to coach him, excited to have him. I think he’s going to do well for both teams [in Brooklyn and Long Island].”
A second option for Zeng is to return to the Chinese Basketball Association, where he could potentially pocket 2 to 3 million yuan a year. Suiting up for the Beijing Ducks last season, Zeng averaged 14.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 blocks in 42 games.
Most social media comments about Zeng’s release were constructive and positive, with some suggesting that leaving “a bad team … is a good thing for your better development”.
“No matter where you are, I hope you can play well this season,” the commentator added.
But other users accused the Nets of “exploiting” Chinese fans by playing Zeng in the game against the Phoenix Suns last Friday.
“Using Zeng Fanbo as toilet paper and throwing [him] away [immediately],” one commentator said.
“The Nets signed him just to sell tickets [in Macau] and then cut him after the game,” read another comment.
Other commentators urged him not to return to play in China. “Head to the National Basketball League in Australia, or stay in G League, just don’t come back,” one said.


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Brooklyn Nets ditch China’s Zeng Fanbo days after disappointing Macau outing against Suns

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Zeng Fanbo’s contract means he could play in the G League for the Long Island Nets. Photo: Karma Lo

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Sport

Basketball

China

Brooklyn Nets waive Zeng Fanbo, who appeared in only one of team’s three pre-season matches


Brooklyn Nets waive Zeng Fanbo, who appeared in only one of team’s three pre-season matches.


CBA (Chinese Basketball Association)

NBA China games

Basketball Association of Hong Kong, China

Brooklyn Nets ditch China’s Zeng Fanbo days after disappointing Macau outing against Suns

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Brooklyn Nets waive Zeng Fanbo, who appeared in only one of team’s three pre-season matches

Brooklyn Nets waive Zeng Fanbo, who appeared in only one of team’s three pre-season matches