Yao Ming, the towering figure who has led the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) for over seven years, has stepped down as president, according to an announcement made on Thursday. Vice President Guo Zhenming has been appointed as the new chief, marking a significant leadership change in Chinese basketball.
The former Houston Rockets All-Star center was first elected as CBA president in February 2017. His appointment was seen as a transformative moment for basketball in China, bringing international experience and a fresh perspective to the national sport. Yao Ming also served as the chairman of the board of the CBA Company, further solidifying his influence on the sport’s development. He was re-elected as CBA chief in December 2022, underscoring the confidence placed in his leadership.
During his tenure, Yao Ming oversaw both remarkable achievements and notable challenges. Under his leadership, the women’s national basketball team soared to new heights. They clinched gold medals at two consecutive Asian Games, first in Jakarta and then in Hangzhou, showcasing their dominance in the region. In 2022, the team matched its best-ever performance at the FIBA Women’s World Cup by securing a runner-up finish, a testament to their hard work and Yao’s dedication to elevating women’s basketball.
However, the men’s national team faced a more tumultuous journey. Despite efforts to bolster the team’s performance, they failed to qualify for both the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. Additionally, they fell short of reaching the top 16 at the FIBA World Cup in both 2019 and 2023. These setbacks highlighted the challenges within the men’s program and underscored the need for renewed strategies and development.
Yao Ming’s departure marks the end of an era for Chinese basketball. His impact on the sport extends beyond the court, influencing administrative reforms and the globalization of basketball in China. As Vice President Guo Zhenming steps into the role of president, the basketball community awaits the next chapter in the sport’s evolution.
The leadership transition comes at a pivotal time, with aspirations to strengthen the national teams and promote basketball at the grassroots level. Stakeholders and fans alike hope that the new leadership will build on the foundations laid by Yao Ming and steer Chinese basketball toward greater success on the international stage.
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Yao Ming steps down as president of Chinese Basketball Association
cgtn.com
