Recently, the performance of the Beijing men's basketball team has been a rollercoaster, especially the state of Zhou Qi, which has left many fans feeling mixed emotions.
Initially, there was optimism for the season as the team had signed Zhou Qi and Chen Yingjun during the offseason, investing significant resources that seemed to indicate a clear determination to challenge for the championship. In the first stage, Beijing's performance was impressive, even reaching the top of the CBA standings at one point, with a momentum that suggested everything was moving towards an ideal direction.
However, recent back-to-back losses have complicated the situation, particularly with Zhou Qi's decline in form causing concern among many fans. Let's delve into Zhou Qi's performance to understand what's happening.
Zhou Qi, a familiar name to many, was once one of the top players in the CBA. This season, he has played 7 games, averaging 12.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. While these statistics appear decent, they represent a noticeable drop from his previous performances.
The most direct impact on his form is undoubtedly injuries. Last season, during the playoffs between Guangdong and Liaoning, Zhou Qi suffered a recurrence of his back injury, missing a total of 177 days, significantly affecting his performance for the entire season. After joining Beijing, he sprained his ankle during the preseason, resulting in a 55-day absence, making it a continuous string of injuries.
This injury history has not allowed Zhou Qi to recover his form ideally. Moreover, he has recently missed three consecutive games, not even traveling with the team for away matches. The official explanation from the team is that he is absent due to a severe cold with vomiting symptoms, expecting to rest for at least ten days or more.
While this sounds serious, many fans are skeptical, wondering if there are deeper reasons beyond illness. One netizen commented: "Is Zhou Qi now playing health-preserving basketball?" To extend his career, he seems to be playing more conservatively, even lacking the fighting spirit for the team. It appears he wants to preserve himself, but this should not affect the team's championship aspirations.
There is some truth to this. At only 28 years old, he is in the prime of his career and should not be giving up at this stage. If he is genuinely considering his career, it is understandable, but as a member of a championship-aspiring team, this conservatism is somewhat disappointing.
Other netizens defended Zhou Qi: "At such a young age, why is he being criticized so harshly?" Everyone has experienced injuries and low periods; are we being too harsh? This viewpoint also holds merit. An athlete's career is filled with highs and lows, and the impact of injuries is uncontrollable. Expectations for Zhou Qi are incredibly high, given his past brilliant performances on the court. Every time his form declines, fans become more disappointed, increasing the pressure on him.
Considering Beijing's overall situation, Zhou Qi's injuries and form decline have indeed caused considerable trouble for the team. The purpose of signing Zhou Qi was to regain strong support in the paint and develop a more stable offensive and defensive system. With his frequent absences and subpar form, how can this not affect the team's overall performance?
Especially in the context of championship contention, Beijing already faces significant pressure, and Zhou Qi's state directly impacts the team's fighting capacity, posing a significant challenge for the team. Some fans online say: "I think Zhou Qi's mentality is the issue; he lacks the fighting spirit on the court. Perhaps he hasn't even realized that he has lost the initial passion and enthusiasm."
This perspective is worth pondering. Zhou Qi was once the key player who could carry the team, but now he seems to have lost that passion. Is it the injuries that have taken away his best form, or is his inner passion gradually cooling down? Only Zhou Qi himself truly knows the answer.
We must consider whether Beijing's championship dream can continue. Zhou Qi's instability and hints of not giving full effort are a considerable blow to Beijing. Fans comment: "Honestly, if Zhou Qi could recover his form, Beijing would indeed have the potential to challenge for the championship." However, his current state is concerning.
Such comments evoke a sense of sadness, as every fan hopes to see the best of Zhou Qi, envisioning him and Beijing together on the highest podium of the CBA. To maintain competitiveness, Beijing cannot overlook Zhou Qi's state issues.
Injuries are inevitable, but adjusting attitude and mentality is crucial in determining whether he can rediscover his form. As a top team, Beijing should provide more support on a spiritual level, helping this former top interior player rediscover his love and fighting spirit for basketball.
Otherwise, if Zhou Qi continues with this health-preserving basketball attitude, it will not only be a significant loss for Beijing but also for the entire CBA. We hope he can quickly adjust his state, finding the spirited Zhou Qi again, rather than one who is already content.
A netizen summarized it this way, perhaps reflecting the collective sentiment of everyone!