Yongxi Cui

Cui Yongxi, affectionately known as Jacky Cui, was born on 28th May 2003, and quickly found his calling in the sphere of professional basketball. Currently playing for the Brooklyn Nets of the National Basketball Association (NBA), he has navigated through different ranks in the world of sports, exhibiting compelling prowess and an unfettered commitment towards every endeavor. For the Brooklyn Nets, he has been signed on a two-way contract with its sibling team, the Long Island Nets of the NBA G League. A truly exceptional display of talent, Jacky, besides being a star in the NBA, also plays for the China men’s national basketball team, carrying forward the pride and power of his homeland on international platforms.

Jacky traces his roots back to Guangxi, China, where he was born into a family with strong athletic foundations – his father, Cui Mingguang, was one of the most prolific street basketball players in Southern China. At the budding age of 16, Jacky’s profound interest in the sport was evident. He attended the Basketball Without Borders camp where he represented China, gaining valuable experience and distinguishing himself through his on-ground tactics and skills. This was only the beginning of his basketball journey; it was followed by attendance at the NBA Academy in Canberra. Here, his education expanded beyond the borders of his home country, as he dreamt of professional play. Following his graduation from the academy at 18 years old, he set his sights on turning pro.

The first milestone in his professional career happened in his own homeland, as he played for the Guangzhou Loong Lions of the Chinese Basketball Association. As a rookie, he had a remarkable entry into the world of professional sports, playing in 43 games, and averaging 12.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.8 steals within an average 30.8 minutes duration. Unsurprisingly, he only went on to enhance these statistics in his second year. Jacky played 56 matches, improving his number across the board – averaging 15.7 points, 6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game in 34.5 minutes. His shooting performance was equally impressive, with a 45.5 percent average from the field, and 36.4 percent from three. His enriching contribution was acknowledged when he was named in the CBA Domestic Second Team honors.

Despite the accolades, Jacky yearned for larger arenas. Upon the conclusion of his season with the Lions, he made the bold decision to declare for the NBA draft. The 2024 NBA draft, however, saw Jacky going undrafted, but this only fueled his determination to make it in the NBA. He joined the Portland Trail Blazers for the 2024 NBA Summer League before finally signing a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets on September 20th the same year.

Parallel to his remarkable journey in the professional leagues, Jacky has also donned the Chinese colors on numerous occasions. He was part of the China men’s national basketball team for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and continued this journey as he played in the Asia Cup qualifiers a year later.

Unquestionably, the story of Jacky Cui is one of relentless pursuit, dedication, and a steadfast belief in his capabilities. The young player from Guangxi who dreamed of playing professionally has now successfully etched his name into the annals of the NBA while carrying the pride of his nation wherever he goes.