As I sit down to write about the exciting world of Chinese basketball, I can't help but reflect on how much this league has grown since I first started following it professionally about a decade ago. The Chinese Basketball Association, or CBA as we enthusiasts call it, has transformed from a relatively domestic-focused competition into what I genuinely believe is becoming one of Asia's premier basketball spectacles. This season brings particular excitement with all 20 teams returning with refreshed rosters and renewed ambitions. Let me walk you through the complete lineup competing in what promises to be one of the most thrilling CBA seasons yet.
When people ask me about the CBA landscape, I always start with the Guangdong Southern Tigers because, let's be honest, they've been the benchmark franchise for years. Having won eleven championships, they're the New York Yankees of Chinese basketball – you either love them or love to hate them. Their rivalry with the Liaoning Flying Leopards has produced some of the most memorable basketball I've witnessed in my career covering Asian sports. Liaoning, defending champions with their electrifying backcourt of Kyle Fogg and Guo Ailun, play with a flair that's just beautiful to watch. Then there's the Zhejiang Golden Bulls, who've built what I consider the most exciting young roster in the league. Their run-and-gun style last season had me on the edge of my seat more times than I can count.
What fascinates me about the current CBA is how different teams have developed distinct identities. The Beijing Ducks play that grinding, defensive basketball that purists appreciate, while the Shanghai Sharks have embraced a more cosmopolitan approach with their international recruitment. I've had the privilege of visiting six different CBA arenas over the years, and each has its unique atmosphere. The Shenzhen Aviators' home games have this incredible energy that's hard to describe – you really have to experience it firsthand. Meanwhile, traditional powerhouses like the Xinjiang Flying Tigers continue to draw massive crowds despite their recent roster changes.
The league's expansion to 20 teams has created what I see as a perfect competitive balance. We've got established franchises like the Shandong Heroes and Zhejiang Guangsha Lions consistently pushing for playoff spots, while newer additions like the Ningbo Rockets are building something special from the ground up. I remember watching the Jiangsu Dragons play last season and thinking how much their defensive intensity had improved compared to previous years. The Fujian Sturgeons, despite their struggles, have developed some of the most promising local talent I've seen in recent seasons.
International players have dramatically elevated the league's quality, and I've noticed a significant improvement in how teams integrate foreign talent with domestic players. Last season, we saw approximately 42 international players across the league, with stars like Dallas Moore (Fujian) and Arnett Moultrie (Jilin) putting up impressive numbers. What's interesting is how different teams utilize their international slots – some prefer established NBA veterans while others gamble on younger prospects from European leagues. Personally, I appreciate teams that use foreign players to complement rather than dominate their Chinese counterparts, as this ultimately benefits the national team program.
The regular season structure, with its 52-game schedule running from October through April, creates what I believe is the perfect rhythm for player development and fan engagement. Having attended games across three different seasons, I can attest to how the intensity builds toward the playoffs. The postseason format, featuring 12 teams in a knockout bracket, consistently delivers drama that even casual basketball fans would appreciate. I'll never forget last year's semifinal between Guangdong and Liaoning – that series had everything from buzzer-beaters to controversial coaching decisions.
As I analyze team rosters for this upcoming season, I'm particularly excited about the Guangzhou Loong Lions' young core and the Tianjin Pioneers' offensive system. The Sichuan Blue Whales have made what I consider some smart offseason moves, while the Qingdao Eagles continue to develop talent through their excellent youth academy. The Nanjing Monkey Kings, despite finishing near the bottom last season, have this infectious energy that makes them fun to watch even when they're losing.
Reflecting on the emotional aspect of sports, I'm reminded of how basketball connects people across different backgrounds. The sentiment "I'm thankful for all the positivity coming my way, and I pray that you all continue to send your support through both the highs and lows" perfectly captures the relationship between teams and their supporters. I've witnessed firsthand how CBA franchises have built genuine community connections – whether it's the Jilin Northeast Tigers hosting basketball clinics in rural areas or the Shanxi Brave Dragons' charity initiatives. This human element, combined with high-level basketball, creates the special atmosphere that keeps me coming back season after season.
Looking at the bigger picture, the CBA's growth mirrors China's broader sports development. With television ratings increasing by roughly 17% last season and merchandise sales hitting record numbers, the league's commercial success is undeniable. However, what excites me most isn't the business side but the basketball itself. The level of play has improved dramatically – faster pace, better shooting, more sophisticated defensive schemes. Having watched approximately 150 CBA games over the past three seasons, I can confidently say we're witnessing the golden era of Chinese professional basketball.
As we approach tip-off for the new season, I'm most curious to see how the middle-tier teams like the Zhejiang Lions and Beijing Royal Fighters will close the gap with the traditional powers. The league's competitive balance has never been better, and I wouldn't be surprised to see a dark horse team make a deep playoff run. Whatever happens, one thing's certain – the complete list of CBA teams represents not just 20 basketball franchises, but 20 different stories waiting to unfold, 20 sets of hopes and dreams, and 20 reasons why Chinese basketball has become such an integral part of Asia's sporting landscape.
