Newcomer Showcase: Fearlessly Charging into the NBA! China’s Future Forward Solution —— Cui Yongxi

Cui Yongxi

Date of Birth: May 28, 2003

Position: Small Forward

Height: 199cm

Weight: 93kg

Arm Span: 206cm

Standing Reach: 262cm

Max Vertical Leap (without a running start): 335cm

Max Vertical Leap (with a running start): 357cm

Expected Draft Position: Late Second Round

Player Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo, Okogie OG Anunoby

In the 2023-2024 CBA regular season, Cui Yongxi played in 50 games, averaging 34.8 minutes per game, scoring 15.7 points, 6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.7 steals, and committing 2.2 turnovers. His shooting percentages were 45.5% from the field, 36.4% from three-point range, and 78.6% from the free-throw line.

In the 2024 CBA playoffs, he appeared in 6 games, averaging 36.3 minutes, scoring 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1 steal, with 3.2 turnovers. His shooting percentages improved to 50.7% from the field, 37.5% from beyond the arc, and 76% from the charity stripe.

Strengths:

Cui Yongxi possesses exceptional physical prowess, frequently delivering impressive dunks, earning him the nickname “China’s Kawhi Leonard.”

He also shows great potential as a shooter, with a smooth shooting stroke, good mechanics, and footwork that allows him to be an instant impact 3-and-D player for his team.

Cui Yongxi is known for his active movement, cutting, and passing ability, which increases his value as a low-usage wing defender against shooting threats.

Weaknesses:

In the context of NBA players, Cui Yongxi’s physical attributes may not stand out as prominently. He can be at a disadvantage against opposing forwards, making him more susceptible to one-on-one matchups.

His shot selection needs improvement; his mid-range shooting accuracy is not outstanding, and his sub-80% free-throw percentage in the CBA indicates room for development.