CHANGCHUN, Sept. 20 (Xinhua) - The Jilin Northeast Tigers are targeting a playoff berth in the upcoming 2026-27 Chinese Basketball Association season after a coaching change and a roster overhaul.
Jilin retained key players Jiang Weize and Cui Jinming with the arrivals of several domestic players, including Yu Zechen and Du Bochao. The club also selected Tsinghua University forward Xu Xitong in the draft, promoted Gao Wenze from its youth team, and signed overseas players DeVaughn Akoon-Purcell, Justin Cobbs and Tyler Cook.
Head coach Li Ang said at the team's season-opening ceremony on Sunday that the revamped squad, which began training in early September, still needs time to build chemistry. "We hope the fans can give us some time and be patient with us. We need to gel better and become a better team," Li said.
Captain Jiang Weize said the newcomers have brought energy to the team and that he is also adapting to a new role. "I used to follow the veterans, but now I need to lead the others forward," Jiang said.
With the promotion and relegation system back in the CBA this season, Jiang said the team feels no significant added pressure and remains focused on the playoffs.
Jilin finished 15th in the regular season last season with a 15-27 record. "We have to compete with the right mentality, whether at home or away and no matter who we face. We won't be afraid of strong opponents," Li said.
The new CBA season kicks off on October 16, with Jilin opening its campaign at home against the Beijing Ducks. ■
