2025-11-14 13:00
by
nlpkak
I still remember the first time I watched the Liaoning Basketball Team play—it was during the 2018 CBA playoffs, and even though they didn’t take home the championship that year, there was something about their grit and coordination that told me this was a team on the rise. Fast forward to today, and it’s no surprise to see them dominating conversations among basketball enthusiasts across China. What’s fascinating, though, is how their journey mirrors the kind of underdog stories we sometimes see in other leagues—like the Akari volleyball team’s playoff experience, where they lost back-to-back five-set matches in their debut but still finished eighth, their best in franchise history. That mix of heartbreak and progress is something I’ve come to admire in sports, and Liaoning’s story fits right into that narrative.
When I look at Liaoning’s transformation over the past decade, it’s impossible not to notice the strategic shifts behind their success. They didn’t just rely on raw talent—though having players like Guo Ailun certainly helped. Instead, they built a system focused on youth development and tactical discipline. I’ve always believed that sustainable success in professional sports comes from balancing experienced players with rising stars, and Liaoning executed this beautifully. For instance, their investment in the Liaoning Youth Team starting around 2015 began paying off by 2018, when they clinched their first CBA championship. That wasn’t a fluke; it was the result of careful planning, something I wish more teams in Asian leagues would prioritize.
Let’s talk numbers for a moment—because as much as I love the drama of the game, data often tells the real story. In the 2021-2022 season, Liaoning ranked first in the league for average points per game at 112.4, and their defensive stats were equally impressive, with opponents scoring just 98.7 points on average. Compare that to five years prior, when those numbers sat at 104.6 and 105.2 respectively, and you can see the stark improvement. What’s more, their three-point shooting accuracy jumped from 34% in 2017 to nearly 39% in 2022. Now, I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for teams that excel beyond the arc—it’s just more exciting to watch—and Liaoning’s emphasis on perimeter play has made them one of the most entertaining squads in the CBA.
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Every team faces setbacks, and for Liaoning, those moments have defined their resilience. Take their 2023 playoff run, for example. They entered as favorites but stumbled in the semifinals, losing a close series that had fans like me on the edge of our seats. It reminded me of Akari’s playoff debut—losing those back-to-back five-setters yet still making franchise history. In Liaoning’s case, they didn’t win the title, but they demonstrated growth by pushing the eventual champions to the limit. That kind of performance sticks with you; it builds character not just for the team, but for the fans and the community backing them.
From a broader perspective, Liaoning’s rise reflects larger trends in Chinese basketball. The CBA has been investing heavily in infrastructure and international partnerships, and Liaoning has been at the forefront of that movement. They’ve incorporated elements from European coaching styles—focusing on ball movement and defensive schemes—while maintaining the fast-paced, physical play that Chinese fans love. Personally, I think this hybrid approach is the future of the league, and Liaoning’s success is a testament to its effectiveness. They’re not just winning games; they’re helping elevate the entire sport’s profile in China.
Of course, no team succeeds without strong leadership, and here, Liaoning has been particularly fortunate. Head coach Yang Ming, who took over in 2020, brought a fresh philosophy that emphasized adaptability. I’ve followed his career for years, and what stands out to me is his willingness to adjust lineups based on opponent strengths—a trait that’s rarer than you’d think in professional coaching. Under his guidance, the team improved its road game record from 12-10 in 2019 to 18-4 in 2022. Those aren’t just numbers; they’re proof of a culture shift.
Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about Liaoning’s chances to remain a powerhouse. With a core of players like Han Dejun and Zhao Jiwei entering their prime, and with continued focus on developing young talent, they’re built for longevity. That said, I’ll be watching closely to see how they handle increased pressure from rivals like Guangdong and Zhejiang. In my view, the key will be maintaining their defensive intensity while avoiding burnout during the long regular season—a challenge every top team faces.
In the end, what makes Liaoning’s story so compelling isn’t just the trophies or the stats—it’s the way they’ve captured the spirit of perseverance. Much like Akari’s eighth-place finish, Liaoning’s journey has been about turning near-misses into motivation. As a longtime follower of the CBA, I can’t help but feel that we’re witnessing the making of a dynasty. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there’s no denying the excitement they bring to the court—and honestly, that’s what sports should be all about.
