In the CBA, the performance of foreign players often determines the fate of a team. However, there are few foreign players like David James, who not only showed amazing ability on the field, but also engraved China deeply in his heart. Born in the United States in 1996, the basketball player has a height of 2.03 meters, a well-rounded technique, and a particularly sensitive sense of smell for rebounding, and his basketball career has opened a new chapter in China.
On March 2, 2023, in a regular season game between Tianjin and Zhejiang, James experienced the most thrilling moment of his career. In a fast attack, he was hit by the opposing player Hu Jinqiu, lost his balance, and landed on his head first, and the scene was thrilling. The accident not only resulted in multiple facial injuries and several broken teeth, but also severe consequences of concussion and temporary amnesia. This scene made the hearts of everyone present rise to their throats, and I am afraid that this foreign aid will fall.
However, it was such an accident that completely changed James's relationship with China. The reaction of the Tianjin team and the majority of fans made him deeply feel the warmth and care from this land. Not only did the Tianjin team convert his contract into a full guarantee, but even if he missed the rest of the games due to injury, he would receive full salary and be responsible for all treatment and rehabilitation expenses. There were also fans waiting at the entrance of the hospital, praying for him, and expressing their support with mobile phone lights and slogans when he returned.
With such care and support, James' performance is getting better and better. In the 2024 season, he averaged 26.5 points and 13 rebounds per game, becoming one of the league's frontrunners in scoring and rebounding. His all-round ability and sense of belonging to China have also led to discussions about whether such a skilled and charismatic player should be naturalized as a Chinese player.
Dear basketball fans, what do you think of David James' performance and his deep affection for China? Do you support his naturalization as a Chinese player? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments section and let's discuss the possible changes that this special foreign player can bring to Chinese basketball.
After experiencing the lowest moment of his career, he not only did not give up, but cherished the opportunity in China even more and gave back to the fans and the team here with an outstanding performance. This is not only a victory for basketball, but also a victory for humanity and emotion. We look forward to seeing him continue to shine in future competitions, and we look forward to him writing more exciting chapters on the stage of Chinese basketball."