CBA's Beijing Ducks officially unveils former NBA star Jeremy Lin
Sports Scene

An upbeat Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) side Beijing Ducks officially presented their new signing Jeremy Lin in the Chinese capital on Thursday. The Chinese-American guard is the biggest star to join the squad after Stephon Marbury left in 2017.

While expressing his happiness to join the CBA, Lin said, "I have never been healthy like I'm now in the past three years. I spent the summer strengthening my muscles, in order to recover my best possible state. Now I'm in great shape. My goal remains the same, and that is to touch my limits. I hope to help my teammates play better too since I'm the guard of the team."

Lin attracts plenty of attention from media to the Shougang Arena in western Beijing. The 31-year-old is best known for his Linsanity period in the 2011-2012 NBA season when he was with the New York Knicks. Including his extraordinary journey in the Big Apple, Lin averaged 11.6 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists throughout his 10 years in the NBA.

New Beijing Ducks recruit Jeremy Lin (C) presents his team jersey during his official unveiling event in Beijing, China, September 26, 2019. /VCG Photo

New Beijing Ducks recruit Jeremy Lin (C) presents his team jersey during his official unveiling event in Beijing, China, September 26, 2019. /VCG Photo

"Most fans felt sad with China's performance during the World Cup. I shared the same feelings since I have several friends in the team. Especially when you asked about Guo Ailun, I think it's unfair to judge a player simply through two or three matches. He played so well last season in the CBA, averaging 23 points or so. But most fans don't know the pressure a player has at a World Cup. I feel bad about it," the former NBA remarked while speaking to the media on China's dismal performance at the recently-concluded FIBA World Cup.

Interestingly, he played for the Toronto Raptors in the last season but was seldom featured on their road to the Championship title. After not receiving a contract this summer, Lin decided to come to the CBA instead of accepting offers from the Euro League. He is expected to team with Nigerian center Ekpe Udoh to lead the three-time champions Ducks back to their peak.