Chinese · Heshan, Guangdong, China · Born 27 October 1984Yi Jianlian, nicknamed 'The Chairman', is a retired Chinese basketball star who became the second Chinese player selected in the NBA's first round, following a 21-year career spent between the NBA and the CBA.
Drafted sixth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2007 — the highest any Chinese player had ever been taken in the NBA Draft — Yi Jianlian ultimately proved his most lasting impact would come back in China, where he won multiple CBA titles, had his No. 9 jersey retired by Guangdong, and represented his country at four Olympic Games including as flag bearer at London 2012.. His performances made him one of the most hyped Chinese prospects since Yao Ming. Yi was selected sixth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2007 NBA Draft, becoming just the second Chinese player picked in the first round, and scored 16 points and grabbed eight rebounds in his home debut. His NBA career, which also included stints with the New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards, and Dallas Mavericks, was hampered by injuries and inconsistent playing time over five seasons, and he returned to the CBA in 2012, later making a brief comeback attempt with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2016. Yi went on to become one of the most decorated players in CBA history with the Guangdong Southern Tigers, adding further league titles across a second stint with the club that ran until his retirement, and represented China at four Olympic Games, serving as the country's flag bearer at the 2012 London Games. Nicknamed 'The Chairman,' he announced his retirement in 2023 after 21 years as a professional, with his No. 9 jersey retired by Guangdong.
Becoming the second Chinese player drafted in the first round of the NBA, and dominant success in the CBA
How They Played
Smooth-shooting power forward with a reliable mid-range jumper and relentless rebounding
Lasting Impact
One of the most accomplished Chinese basketball players in history, a national hero often compared to Yao Ming
Career Honours
- Second Chinese player drafted in the NBA first round (2007, 6th overall)
- 5x CBA champion (Guangdong Southern Tigers)
- CBA Rookie of the Year
- China flag bearer, 2012 London Olympics
- 4x Olympian with China
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Guangdong Southern Tigers | 2002–2007 | — |
| Milwaukee Bucks | 2007–2008 | — |
| New Jersey Nets | 2008–2010 | — |
| Washington Wizards | 2010–2011 | — |
| Dallas Mavericks | 2012–2012 | — |
| Guangdong Southern Tigers | 2012–2023 | — |
Chinese Athletes