Media Figure: Beijing Shougang Might Be the Only Team Capable of Challenging Liaoning in the New Season?

On September 9, media figure @Zhao Tanchang from Ball Circle posted about the prospects of the Beijing men’s basketball team for the new season. The original post reads as follows:

Beijing Shougang, perhaps the only team capable of challenging Liaoning in the new season?

In terms of presence during this off-season in the CBA, Beijing Shougang is undoubtedly at the forefront. Frankly speaking, Beijing Shougang has indeed experienced the growing pains of a generational transition in recent years. In the past few seasons, this veteran powerhouse has been unable to compete for the championship. However, after this year’s off-season, they have transformed into one of the favorites for the title.

Tanchang previously wrote in his revelations that the renewal of captain Zhai Xiaochuan on a Class C contract was a prelude to subsequent signings. They subsequently signed Zhou Qi and Chen Yingjun, and acquired Omore from Ningbo, upgrading their frontcourt, wing, and guard positions to top-tier levels in the league.

The idea of Shougang signing Zhou Qi started when he returned from the NBA. Last season, they were very close to completing a trade, and finally “won the beauty” this year. Zhou Qi has also realized his wish to play for a super first-tier city team. It was evident from last season that a healthy Zhou Qi remains the most influential player in the league. However, his career is entering its twilight, making it even more crucial for him to seize opportunities for future planning. The current situation can be described as harmonious for QI (Zhou Qi).

Chen Yingjun had to switch teams due to financial issues with the Guangzhou Loong Lions, but among the interested parties, Beijing Shougang was his top choice. All three parties agreed, and the transfer was completed—a win-win situation. Shougang was eager to strengthen their guard line during this off-season. Although they missed out on Wang Lanqin and Zhao Yanhao, Chen Yingjun is the best solution. They have a tradition of Taiwanese players succeeding, and Chen Yingjun could be the next one.

Regarding Omore, his spider-like physique, over 40% three-point shooting accuracy, and excellent international experience make him a rare find. Last season in the CBA, Omore topped the league in obpm among foreign players, demonstrating his outstanding offensive capabilities. Solomon and Jieman, the other two foreign players, each bring their unique strengths to help the team in their respective areas.

Beijing Shougang trained hard at their base this summer and have recently been playing various warm-up matches outside. With their original lineup, they can secure a playoff spot. These players will provide decent depth to the squad, and with the addition of several strong reinforcements, the team now has the confidence to aim for the championship. A lineup with depth in regular rotations and dominance in decisive moments, imagine a balanced combination of Zhou Qi, Zeng Fanbo, Omore, Jieman/Raymon, and Chen Yingjun—it would be formidable.

However, they are not without flaws. Injuries are their biggest enemy. Tian Yuxiang is expected to miss most of the new season, and the other key players also have varying degrees of injury history. Their health will be the main factor determining how far they can go. To compete for the championship, Zhou Qi and Chen Yingjun must both be present in the playoffs. Other factors include team chemistry and coaching staff capability.

Regardless, Beijing has undergone a complete transformation through a series of moves, reigniting hope among fans. Not only have they salvaged the box office market but also balanced the competition with their city rivals. Their games in the new season will be highly anticipated. Therefore, Tanchang predicts their performance: securing fourth place while aiming for the championship, with the semifinals as the baseline and the finals as the goal.