The CBA's Shanghai Sharks announced on Friday that Liu Wei, the greatest point guard in the team's history, officially retired as a player. The No. 8 jersey of Liu retired on the .
Liu Wei
Key Career Moment of Liu Wei
Liu Wei cemented his legacy in Chinese basketball during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he played a crucial role for Team China. Facing powerhouse teams like the USA and Spain, Liu Wei showcased his leadership and clutch shooting, helping China reach the quarterfinals.
His performance against Germany, where he contributed 11 points and 5 assists in a must-win game, remains one of the defining moments of his career.
Liu Wei was the steady hand China needed in high-pressure situations, said former teammate Yao Ming.
Unique Skill of Liu Wei
Liu Wei was known for his exceptional court vision and playmaking ability.
Unlike many guards of his era, he combined a high basketball IQ with precise passing, often threading the needle in tight spaces.
Liu Wei (Chinese: 刘炜; pinyin: Liú Wěi) is the head coach of Chinese professional basketball team Xinjiang Flying Tigers and former basketball player who played as a point guard.
His ability to control the tempo of the game made him one of the most reliable point guards in Chinese basketball history.
Liu Wei's Stats
- 5-time CBA champion with the Shanghai Sharks
- Over 6,000 career points in the Chinese Basketball Association
- Represented China in three Olympic Games (2004, 2008, 2012)
Liu Wei's Legacy in the NBA
Though Liu Wei never played in the NBA, his influence on Chinese basketball is undeniable.
He was a key figure in the Shanghai Sharks' dominance alongside Yao Ming and later mentored younger players like Guo Ailun. A unique fact: Liu Wei once scored 44 points in a single CBA game, proving he could take over offensively when needed. Today, he is remembered as one of China's greatest point guards, paving the way for future generations in international basketball.