CBA: Sullinger shines for Shenzhen despite loss to Beijing

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The Beijing Ducks beat Shenzhen 92-89 on Friday night in the Chinese Basketball Association to remain undefeated at Wukesong this season. But the victory was anything but easy for the hosts, and that is due in large part to the efforts of Shenzhen's new star in the frontcourt, former NBA standout Jared Sullinger.

Sullinger initially joined the Shenzhen Leopards on a two-month contract, but recently extended that deal through the end of this season. That's because the number 21 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft says he's settled nicely into the Chinese Basketball Association, and is committed to helping his new squad reach new heights.

“These guys are great. I’m trying to do something this team has never done before. We’re trying to win and get as far as we can. Hopefully we can win a championship,” said Sullinger.

Jared Sullinger. /VCG Photo

The former Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors big man came into Friday's contest against the Beijing Ducks ranked fifth in scoring and first in rebounding in the CBA.

And while he's downplaying his experience in America, Sullinger's teammates are excited to be hooping it up, alongside a competitor of his caliber.

"He shows a lot of leadership on the court. In addition to that, his scoring ability, rebounding, and passing skills are also very high-level. Our team is so proud to play with him," said Gu Quan, Shenzhen forward.

On some level, you might say Jared Sullinger was pretty much born to play basketball. His father Satch is a well-known youth coach in the state of Ohio, while brothers J.J. and Julian also enjoyed standout careers on the court.

But the youngest sibling has taken the family legacy to broader horizons than ever, with his exploits in the NBA, and now bringing his talents to China. Not bad for someone who was teased as a kid for being overweight.

Indeed the boy who seemed to be outgrowing his body as a pre-teen, has matured into a 25-year-old, 6 foot 9 inch, 280 pound, uberforce on the hardwood, and opponents are starting to pull out all the stops, when the schedule matches them up against Shenzhen.

Tough tactics would help the Ducks prevail 92-89, despite Sullinger's game-high 34 points and 21 rebounds. An unwelcome setback for the Leopards, but the side from the South has served notice that they want to contend for the crown, until the final second of their campaign.