Zhao Rui makes a powerful return! After waiting for a full two years.

Zhao Rui, Hu Mingxuan, and Xu Jie appeared simultaneously in Guangdong team uniforms, a scene last witnessed in the summer of 2023.

This summer offseason, Zhao Rui, who transferred from the Xinjiang team to the Beijing team, will continue to represent Guangdong in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao National Games (November 9 to November 21) men's senior basketball competition. Alongside him are familiar teammates such as Xu Jie, Hu Mingxuan, Jiao Boqiao, Ren Junfei, Shen Zijie, Du Runwang, Zhou Peng, Wang Ruize, and He Xining.

At this year’s Asian Cup, Zhao Rui led the Chinese men's basketball team as captain to a runner-up finish, personally averaging 13.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 42.4% and 35.5%. Returning to play for Guangdong in the National Games, he displayed solid form and played more smoothly on a court filled only with domestic players.

The main advantage now is that Zhao Rui is free from injury, allowing him to perform moves boldly.

Compared to scoring, Zhao Rui’s leadership and passing skills have earned widespread praise, especially when Jiao Boqiao is on the court with him, often receiving perfect setups and frequently thrilling fans with powerful dunks during games.

According to statistics,Zhao Rui made his first appearance for Guangdong in two years, scoring 13 points and helping the team defeat the visiting Kenhachi USA team 85-51.

Cherish every moment; this National Games might be the last for 29-year-old Zhao Rui representing Guangdong, and he has a chance to win the gold medal on home ground. Regardless of the outcome, maintaining good health is the top priority, and the same goes for everyone else.

After the National Games, the Chinese men's basketball team will immediately start a new training camp, with a very tight schedule because the World Cup qualifiers aiming for the 2027 tournament begin on November 28 at home against South Korea, followed by an away game against South Korea on December 1.

Although Zhao Rui may not be the strongest player on today’s Chinese team, he is undoubtedly the most influential leader, and his experience playing against South Korea is invaluable.

Hopefully, the Chinese men's basketball team can finish 2025 on a high note with two victories.