Shandong Men's Basketball Team has recently made a big move by inviting Tang Caiyu, the former sharpshooter from Xinjiang, for a trial. This native of Yantai, Shandong, once scored an impressive seven three-pointers in a single game in the CBA, and now it seems he might be returning to play in his hometown.
Many fans may have forgotten about Tang Caiyu, but he is no ordinary player. In the 20-21 and 21-22 seasons, he played exceptionally well, averaging 13 points per game with a remarkable 40% three-point shooting accuracy. His defense was also fierce, making him one of the top 3D players in the CBA.
I'll tell you, Xinjiang team treated Tang Caiyu like a treasure back then! They gave him a five-year Class C contract, which is quite rare in the CBA. Unfortunately, injuries took their toll on him.
Coach Qiu Biao and Tang Caiyu share a deep bond as master and apprentice. Back in Xinjiang, Coach Qiu often had heart-to-heart talks with Tang. Even when Tang was not in good form, Coach Qiu gave him opportunities to find his rhythm on the court. Their reunion in Shandong is truly meant to be!
Shandong Men's Basketball Team is currently the hottest team in the CBA this year! Coach Qiu has brought a new spirit to the team. Look at the caliber of players like Yu Dehao, Guo Kai, and Xu Mengjun; the team's depth has skyrocketed! Coach Qiu's eye for talent is truly remarkable!
However, this situation is not straightforward. As you know, the physical tests in the CBA are very strict now, even big names like Yang Zheng and Ding Yanhang failed the tests. Tang Caiyu hasn't played for a long time, so whether his physical condition can meet the standards is still uncertain.
To be honest, if Tang Caiyu can recover his previous form, Shandong Men's Basketball Team's outside shooting will definitely improve significantly! His three-point shots are like having automatic targeting, swishing in effortlessly!
In my opinion, it all depends on Tang Caiyu himself. He played so smoothly in Xinjiang back then! Unfortunately, he later had psychological issues and proactively requested to buy out his contract. Xinjiang team was actually very honorable, willing to give him time to recover, but the young man insisted on leaving the basketball circle to take a break.
Let me tell you this, the CBA is lacking players like Tang Caiyu who can both shoot and defend. If Shandong Men's Basketball Team can really sign this sharpshooter, they won't have to worry about defense anymore! After all, there are not many players in the league who can excel beyond the three-point line and tightly guard opponents.
Look at how envious other teams are! Who wouldn't want a shooter with a 40% three-point shooting rate? Moreover, Tang Caiyu is a true Shandong native; the feeling of playing at home would be different, wouldn't it?
As the saying goes, gold will always shine. If Tang Caiyu can return to the court, it will undoubtedly be a major highlight in the CBA! Fans are eagerly waiting to see the return of this sharpshooter! Who wouldn't want to see him recreate his past glory of averaging 13 points?
In my opinion, if this trial works out, it would be a win-win situation! Shandong Men's Basketball Team would gain a super shooter, and Tang Caiyu could return to the beloved court. It all depends on whether this former sharpshooter can seize this opportunity!