by sportswriter Liu Yang
FUZHOU, Oct. 15 (Xinhua) -- The Fujian Sturgeons have retained their core roster, re-signed head coach Aleksandar Kesar and added three imports as the young squad prepares for the 2026-27 Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) season, which marks the return of relegation after a 22-year absence.
Fujian has kept nearly its entire domestic rotation from last season. Veteran Su Ruoyu, a key offseason addition, is recovering from a preseason injury and is expected to return to team training soon. Meng Yi, the leading scorer on the club's youth team, has been promoted to the first team, underscoring the club's commitment to developing homegrown talent.
The young squad drew widespread attention last season with a series of upset victories. Fujian earned its first-ever away win over powerhouse Guangdong Southern Tigers and went on to sweep the season series. The Sturgeons also snapped the Zhejiang Golden Bulls' seven-game winning streak and came from behind to beat the Beijing Ducks.
Fujian opens its new campaign on October 17 with an away game against the Jiangsu Dragons.
"Being captain is not about glory; it is about responsibility," captain Zou Yang said. "We cannot guarantee a playoff spot, but we will fight until the final buzzer every game. I hope the fans can see the resilience and tenacity in our play."
The 26-year-old forward spent the offseason training overseas to improve his ability to cope with physical pressure, sharpening his finishing through contact and his shooting consistency.
"As captain, I need to serve as a bridge between the coaches, local players and imports," Zou added. "I will try to help our younger teammates, making sure every player understands their role during games."
Three new imports headline Fujian's offseason additions. U.S. combo guard Javion Hamlet joins after three seasons with the Tianjin Pioneers, where he averaged 21.8 points and 5.8 assists per game last season. American guard Daryl Macon, who has NBA experience, adds perimeter firepower and defensive versatility, while big man Bennie Boatwright provides frontcourt depth.
The Sturgeons finished 14th in 2025-26 in Kesar's first full season in charge, narrowly missing the playoffs. The domestic players have an average age of 23.5 this season, making Fujian one of the youngest squads in the league.
"We had one of the youngest rosters in the league and came close to the playoffs last season, beating several top teams along the way," Kesar said. "We aim to build a winning culture here. Our young players have improved through summer training and will receive meaningful minutes."
The 2026-27 relegation framework introduces a new competitive dynamic for all 20 CBA clubs. Under the new system, the bottom two teams in the regular season will face the top two National Basketball League (NBL) sides in April 2027.
Club executive director Wu Bolan expressed confidence in Kesar while acknowledging the increased pressure brought by the league's structural reform.
"We give full trust to Kesar and his coaching group," Wu said. "Our focus is on internal development, team chemistry and competitive spirit, so that we can meet the new challenges."
"We aim to compete for higher standings, and we must hold onto the fighting spirit. This team will withstand whatever pressure the new season brings," she added. ■
