In a surprising turn of events, basketball legend Yao Ming has stepped down as president of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). 🏀✨ Vice President Guo Zhenming has been appointed the new chief, as announced on Thursday.
Yao Ming, the former Houston Rockets All-Star center, took the helm of the CBA in February 2017 and was re-elected in December 2022. Over his seven-year tenure, he experienced both triumphs and challenges in elevating Chinese basketball to new heights. 🌟
Under his leadership, the women's national team shined brightly, snagging gold medals at two consecutive Asian Games in Jakarta and Hangzhou. They also matched their best-ever result at the FIBA Women's World Cup with an impressive runner-up finish in 2022. 🥇🎉
However, the men's national team faced a rocky road, missing out on qualification for both the Tokyo and Paris Olympics and falling short of the top 16 at the FIBA World Cups in 2019 and 2023. It's been a tough journey, but fans remain hopeful for a comeback! 💪🔥
Yao Ming's departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on the game and inspiration to young athletes across Asia and the globe is undeniable. Here's to new beginnings and the future of Chinese basketball! 🌍🏀
Reference(s):
Yao Ming steps down as president of Chinese Basketball Association
cgtn.com
