When I first heard the news that I would be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, I was both surprised and deeply honored. It's not something I ever imagined for myself when I was growing up in China, playing basketball on a small court with my friends. But here I am, standing on this stage, representing not just myself, but the dreams of many young people who have looked up to the game of basketball.
Being part of the Hall of Fame is more than just a personal achievement. It’s a recognition of the journey I’ve taken, the challenges I’ve faced, and the support I’ve received from so many people along the way. First and foremost, I want to thank my family—my parents, my wife, and my daughter. They have always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. Their love and encouragement have been the foundation of everything I’ve done.
I also want to thank the NBA for giving me the opportunity to play at the highest level and to experience a different culture. It wasn’t easy at first. The language, the style of play, the expectations—it all felt overwhelming. But with time, I learned, grew, and found my place. I’m proud of how far I came, not just as a player, but as a person.
Basketball has taught me more than just how to shoot a ball or run a fast break. It has taught me about teamwork, perseverance, and respect. These are values that have stayed with me throughout my life. And I hope that through my story, others can see that no matter where you come from, if you work hard and believe in yourself, you can achieve great things.
As I stand here today, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. To the fans who supported me, to the coaches who guided me, to the teammates who stood beside me—thank you. This honor belongs to all of us.
Finally, I want to say this: the Hall of Fame is not just a place for the past. It’s a reminder of what we can do when we dream big and never give up. I hope my story inspires the next generation of athletes, especially those from countries where basketball isn’t the main sport, to believe in themselves and chase their dreams.
Thank you.
