Xinjiang's Qi Lin shows ambition in his rookie CBA season

Qi Lin (R) controls the ball during a match between Xinjiang Flying Tigers and Jilin Northeast Tigers at the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, July 7, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

Qi Lin, Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) side Xinjiang Flying Tigers' rookie, expects he could have a more important role during his first season.

URUMQI, China, July 19 (Xinhua) -- Qi Lin, Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) side Xinjiang Flying Tigers' rookie, expects he could have a more important role during his first season.

The rookie has shown significant progress in both scoring and defense, averaging 13 points and four rebounds over the past five games.

"Victory is the priority. I would like to be more energetic on the court and more aggressive on the defensive end," Qi told media.

"When opportunity knocks at the door, you need to get ready. We maintained a daily practice during the CBA suspension, both the chemistry of the team and my personal skill has been improved."

Qi Lin (R) controls the ball during a match between Xinjiang Flying Tigers and Shandong Heroes at the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, July 17, 2020. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

The 20-year-old has good body control and athleticism, with rare size and length for a small forward.

A video clip showing the rookie easily finish a shot block on Shandong's center Tao Hanlin delighted the fans on social media.

When the rookie dropped out of Tsinghua University, one of the most prestigious universities in China, and signed a contract with Xinjiang, it became a hot topic.

"To be a professional is always my dream, winning the title as a prime member is what I expect, and I hope I'm capable of being called up to the national team one day."

Qi's teammate Zeng Lingxu, also his senior at Tsinghua university, said that Qi could make the leap in the future.

"I never imagined that he could have such an impressive performance since the relaunch," said Zeng, "he has proved himself that he can play an important role in the rotation." ■