On July 15, 2023, the CBA Draft Ceremony unfolded in Chengdu. Zou Yang, hailing from Tsinghua University, was selected by the Fujian Sturgeons as the fifth overall pick in the first round, officially commencing his professional basketball career. He also became a signed athlete of "War Horse", along with his senior, Wang Lanqin, to embark on the journey of professional basketball. This remarkable alliance, fueled by passion and dedication, epitomizes the inspirational stories of young players challenging themselves on the court. As a CBA sponsor, War Horse continues to expand its footprint in the world of basketball, witnesses to and shapes new hopes of Chinese basketball.

Extending his blessings to Zou Yang, Wang Lanqin awaits their journey together to write the story of grit

Born in 2000, Zou Yang transferred to Beijing Normal University Affiliated Middle School in his second year, commencing formal basketball training. He later joined Shenzhen Second Experimental High School, a renowned basketball school, serving as a key player for the school team. In 2018, Zou Yang excelled in the college entrance examination, surpassing the score required for Tsinghua University by 118 points, gaining entry into the basketball-rich environment of Tsinghua University. Standing tall at 1.98 meters, with exceptional shoulders, remarkable wingspan, and impressive explosiveness, all of which are his "gift" in the realm of basketball.

Upon joining Tsinghua University's basketball team, Zou Yang, under the guidance of Coach Chen Lei, competed in CUBA. On the fertile grounds of the league, he honed his skills and gathered energy. With increasing experience, he assumed a more significant role within the team. Upon entering the CBA, Zou Yang, as a young player, was aware of the transitional period he was about to undergo. He shared, "There are both high expectations and questions from the outside - it's all normal. Stepping into the CBA is a test for adjusting to the intensity and transforming one's mindset. However, I have my role models and my big brother Wang Lanqin by my side. He set an excellent example for me with his performance throughout the past year. I will follow in his footsteps and adjust to the professional league step by step."

As a signed athlete under War Horse, Wang Lanqin was present throughout the entire draft process. He perceived Zou Yang's poise and composed attitude. When Zou Yang was selected by the Fujian team, Wang Lanqin was overjoyed, as his younger brother could now wholeheartedly pursue his dreams. Wang Lanqin expressed, "I came to the draft to share some experiences with Zou Yang, and I hope he can achieve better results." In the future, both will venture onto CBA  as War Horse’s ambassadors, with Wang Lanqin welcoming his junior into the War Horse family. He aspires to see both compete in the CBA, writing a story of fearless determination, embracing challenges with unwavering spirit. Looking ahead to his second season, Wang Lanqin is full of anticipation, stating, "I hope to have a stronger inner-self and maintain a clearer mind on the court for better in-game performance."

Grateful for the presence of War Horse and eager for the journey on CBA

Both Wang Lanqin and War Horse will provide Zou Yang with ample energy and support, bringing him great peace of mind. He stated, "In fact, back in 2019 when I played in the CUBA finals, I had already noticed War Horse. At that time, I felt it was a brand full of passion. I drink War Horse before and after training, and after that, I feel significant improvements in both mental and physical recovery." As Zou Yang starts his CBA career, his connection with War Horse intensifies. Going forward as a signed athlete, he eagerly anticipates the collaboration. He expressed, "War Horse has accompanied me on my journey of growth just like a good friend. It continuously provides me with strength and support and I look forward to our future cooperation."

While CBA is more challenging than CUBA, Zou Yang is still well-prepared. He shared, "I’m very confident about adapting to the intensity of CBA. Moreover, I am very familiar with Fujian team because my former teammates are in the team. I believe my playing style and defensive abilities will quickly integrate into the team so as to do my contributions."

Looking ahead, Zou Yang is eager to embrace Marbury's guidance

Now a member of the War Horse Energy Team, Zou Yang isn’t just eager to begin his CBA journey, but he is also brimming with excitement for the upcoming "War Horse Basketball Academy - Marbury Training Camp." For Zou Yang, the head of the "War Horse Basketball Academy" , Stephon Marbury, holds special significance. He expressed, "I watched Marbury play when I was very young, and that left me with many passionate memories. In a sense, he led me to basketball. So, I am greatly looking forward to more interactions and discussions with him during this summer's 'War Horse Basketball Academy - Marbury Training Camp.' I hope it will help me adapt to professional basketball more quickly. "