by sportswriters Li Bowen, Lin Deren, Cao Yibo
BEIJING, June 28 (Xinhua) -- The 2024 NBA Draft concluded on Thursday with China's Cui Yongxi ultimately going undrafted. Speaking to Xinhua, Cui shared his unique experience of NBA team workouts, and expressed his determination to achieve his dreams.
Reflecting on his journey through workouts and the draft, Cui described it as a novel experience that gave him the opportunity to compete with professional players from the world's top basketball league. "I felt the setbacks, but I don't find them frightening," Cui said.
"It's a shame to go undrafted, but it's the NBA. It's like interviewing for a top-tier company," he added.
Cui attended workouts with multiple teams before the draft, and said he was impressed by the intensity, focus and structure of the training sessions. "The training schedules were tight, which was a significant test for my physical condition," Cui said.
Cui often trained multiple times a day during the workouts, combining ball handling with strength training. By the end of the day, he was drenched in sweat.
"The Brooklyn Nets was my first stop, and the team has many Chinese elements. The workout there went very well," Cui said.
"Training at high altitude in Utah was challenging due to the thin air and required adaptation to the climate. The intensity of the workouts was different, incorporating more cardiovascular and endurance training," he added.
In Indiana, Cui had the chance to meet NBA legend Larry Bird. "In Indiana, if you make 20 out of 25 three-point shots, there's a big bell you can ring. It was a unique training scenario," Cui shared.
Towards the end of his workout journey, Cui faced some injuries but persevered through sheer willpower and focus. "During a workout in Portland, halfway through, the pain in my Achilles tendon became almost unbearable. I went to the medical room, wrapped my Achilles tighter with a bandage to lessen the pain, and finished the workout."
"In New York, it was unfortunate that I had to rest for three days and then reschedule the workout, but it was a new experience," Cui added.
Cui also shared his experience training with different teams of NBA players, including Ja Morant's Memphis Grizzlies. "Morant's team was glad to train me. I felt their enthusiasm and experienced different training programs, which focused more on individual and finishing skills. In Orlando, my training was more shooting-oriented. Each trainer has their strengths in teaching," Cui said.
"Although I went undrafted, I am determined to play in the NBA. My goal is clear, and I am eager to reach the top. I want to achieve my dream step by step. I hope everyone with a dream will courageously pursue it and never regret chasing their dreams," Cui added. ■