The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) announced on Thursday the introduction of a new tournament, the CBA Club Cup, set to debut in the 2024-25 season. This inaugural competition aims to enhance the competitive landscape of Chinese basketball as the league celebrates its 30th anniversary.
At a press conference, the CBA unveiled the group stage draw, dividing all 20 teams into four groups. Each group consists of five teams that will compete in a single round-robin format. The top two teams from each group will advance to a single-elimination knockout stage, intensifying the race for the coveted Club Cup title.
The Club Cup introduces distinct regulations compared to the regular CBA season. Games will be played in four quarters of 10 minutes each, as opposed to the standard 12-minute quarters. Additionally, teams are permitted to field foreign players for a total of eight instances per game, slightly more than the seven allowed in CBA matches.
The competition is scheduled to take place in two segments, in November 2024 and February 2025. The cities of Qingdao in Shandong Province and Shenzhen in Guangdong Province have submitted bids to host the tournament, signaling regional enthusiasm for the event.
Group Stage Draw Results:
Group A:
1. Guangzhou Loong Lions
2. Tianjin Pioneers
3. Guangdong Southern Tigers
4. Beijing Royal Fighters
5. Jiangsu Dragons
Group B:
1. Zhejiang Golden Bulls
2. Jilin Northeast Tigers
3. Zhejiang Lions
4. Sichuan Blue Whales
5. Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin
Group C:
1. Shenzhen Leopards
2. Shanghai Sharks
3. Ningbo Rockets
4. Shanxi Loongs
5. Fujian Sturgeons
Group D:
1. Qingdao Eagles
2. Liaoning Flying Leopards
3. Nanjing Monkey Kings
4. Beijing Ducks
5. Xinjiang Flying Tigers
The launch of the Club Cup not only commemorates three decades of the CBA but also reflects the league’s commitment to fostering local talent and increasing competitive opportunities. Business professionals and investors will be watching keenly, as the tournament could impact team valuations and sponsorship deals.
For fans of Asian basketball, the Club Cup promises an exciting addition to the sporting calendar, offering fresh rivalries and intensified competition. Academics and analysts may find interest in studying its impact on the development of basketball in China and across Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
