Guangdong Southern Tigers (CBA): Dominance, Legends, and Rising Stars
The **Guangdong Southern Tigers** are one of the most successful and popular teams in the **Chinese Basketball Association (CBA)**. With a record **11 CBA championships** (as of 2024), the Tigers have established themselves as a force in Chinese basketball, owing to their solid management, quality players, and a winning mentality.
In this deep dive, we’ll explore: - The history and supremacy of the Guangdong Southern Tigers - The current roster and team structure - The **5 most popular players** (past and present) who formed the franchise - Why this club remains a fan favorite
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## **History of the Guangdong Southern Tigers**
Founded in **1993**, the Guangdong Southern Tigers swiftly ascended to prominence in the CBA. Under the tutelage of great coach **Du Feng**, the squad has dominated Chinese basketball for nearly two decades.
### **Championship Legacy** - **11 CBA Titles** (2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2019, 2020, 2021)
- **Most Finals Appearances** in CBA history - **Longest Dynasty**: Their three-peat (2004-2006) and four-peat (2008-2011) reinforced their legend.
The squad plays its home games in the **Dongguan Basketball Center**, a facility recognized for its electric atmosphere.
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## **Current Roster: How Many Players Are on the Team?**
The Guangdong Southern Tigers keep a **15-man roster** in the CBA, including a mix of seasoned veterans and youthful stars. The squad is noted for its strong **youth development program**, which has produced several Chinese national team players.
### **Key Players (2024 Season) **
1. **Zhu Fangyu** (Team Captain, Retired but still important in management)
2. **Yi Jianlian** (Legendary center, since retired but a franchise symbol)
3. **Zhao Rui** (Star point guard, national team player)
4. **Hu Mingxuan** (Elite scorer and clutch performance)
5. **Xu Jie** (Rising young guard with playmaking talents)
6. **Du Runwang** (Reliable three-point shooter)
7. **Zhang Hao** (Promising young forward)
The team also occasionally signs **foreign players (imports)** to bolster its roster, such as **Marshon Brooks** and **Sonny Weems** in prior seasons.
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## **The 5 Most Popular Guangdong Southern Tigers Players**
### **1. Yi Jianlian –
The Face of Chinese Basketball** - **Position**: Power Forward / Center - **Years with Guangdong**: 2002–2007, 2012–2023 - **Achievements**:
- 7× CBA Champion - 5× CBA MVP - NBA Experience (Milwaukee Bucks, New Jersey Nets, etc.) - Led China’s national team in many Olympics
Yi was the **franchise cornerstone** for nearly a decade, noted for his **versatile scoring, shot-blocking, and leadership**. His retirement in 2023 signaled the end of an era, yet he remains a popular figure in Chinese basketball.
### **2. Zhu Fangyu –
The "Fourth Quarter King"** - **Position**: Small Forward - **Years with Guangdong**: 1999–2017 - **Achievements**:
- 8× CBA Champion - CBA Finals MVP (2005, 2008) - One of the greatest scorers in CBA history
Zhu was **clutch in critical moments**, gaining his moniker for dominating fourth quarters. After retiring, he became the team’s **general manager**, helping shape its continuing success.
### **3. Zhao Rui –
The Next Superstar** - **Position**: Point Guard - **Years with Guangdong**: 2016–Present - **Achievements**:
- 3× CBA Champion - CBA All-Star - Key player for the Chinese national team
Zhao is recognized for his **explosive drives, playmaking, and defensive intensity**. He’s viewed as the **future leader** of the franchise.
### **4. Hu Mingxuan –
The Sharpshooting Guard** - **Position**: Shooting Guard - **Years with Guangdong**: 2017–Present - **Achievements**:
- 3× CBA Champion - 2021 CBA Finals MVP
Hu is a **deadly three-point shooter** and a solid scorer in crunch time. His ascension has made him a **fan favorite**.
### **5. Du Feng –
From Player to Coaching Legend** - **Position**: Center (as a player) - **Years with Guangdong**: 1990s–2000s (Player), 2018–Present (Coach)
- **Achievements**:
- 7× CBA Champion (as player and coach)
- CBA Best Coach (many times)
Du Feng **transitioned from a dominant player to the team’s most successful coach**, leading the Tigers to several titles in the modern period.
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## **Why Are the Guangdong Southern Tigers So Popular?**
1. **Winning Culture** - Their **11 championships** speak for themselves.
2. **Star Power** - Legends like Yi Jianlian and Zhu Fangyu created their legacy here.
3. **Youth Development** - They continuously create **new talents** for the national squad.
4. **Exciting Playstyle** – Fast-paced, high-scoring basketball with good cooperation.
5. **Loyal Fanbase** - The "Tigers" have one of the **most passionate followings** in China.
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## **Conclusion: The Legacy Continues**
The **Guangdong Southern Tigers** are more than simply a basketball team—they are a **symbol of excellence** in Chinese sports. With a combination of **veteran leadership, youthful talent, and shrewd management**, they remain **title contenders every season**.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the CBA, the Tigers’ **history, top players, and championship DNA** make them a must-watch club.
**Who’s your favorite Guangdong Southern Tigers player? Let us know in the comments!**