The Brooklyn Nets have made a major addition to their roster for the 2025-26 NBA season.
Despite entering the 2025 NBA Draft with five first-round picks, not many view the Brooklyn Nets as a top team in the Eastern Conference.
In fact, anonymous executives made fun of the Nets’ first-round picks in the draft. As a result, it’s no surprise that the Nets are still looking for valuable additions to their roster.
According to NBA insider Michael Scotto, the Nets have now signed Fanbo Zeng to a new deal for the 2025-26 NBA season.
Considering Zeng didn’t take the traditional route of playing in the NCAA, it wouldn’t be a surprise that many fans are unaware of who the Nets’ new signing is.
Well, the 22-year-old is one of the best prospects on the Beijing Ducks of China’s CBA. Standing at 6’11” and weighing about 199lbs, Zeng has a shot at making a name for himself on the Nets.
During his time in the CBA, Zeng has averaged an impressive 12.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game for the Ducks.
Stats | 2022-23 | 2023-24 | 2024-25 |
Points | 12.0 PPG | 10.3 PPG | 14.7 PPG |
Rebounds | 4.6 RPG | 4.1 RPG | 4.7 RPG |
Assists | 0.8 APG | 0.8 APG | 1.9 APG |
He also shot 46.3% from the field and 38.6% from the three-point line. Combine that with 80.0% from the free-throw line, Zeng is an efficient scorer.
Zeng did try his luck in the 2022 NBA Draft, but no team trusted in the skills of the forward at the time. A key reason behind it was his lackluster performance in the G League.
Yes, before heading to CBA’s Beijing Ducks, Zeng briefly played for the G League Ignite during the 2021-22 tip-off tournament.
However, Zeng averaged just 3.8 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game for the team in nine appearances, including three starts.
He also shot an abysmal 36.4% from the field, but a respectable 40.0% from deep. Either way, Zeng has seemingly worked on his craft as he earns a shot at finally making his NBA debut in the 2025-26 season.
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