D’Angelo Russell Heads to China for New NBA Career Chapter
D’Angelo Russell is leaving the NBA and landing in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) after his release from the Memphis Grizzlies. The league announced Wednesday that Russell will join the Shanghai Sharks ahead of the upcoming 2025‑26 season, marking a fresh chapter for the 30‑year‑old guard.
From Memphis Release to Shanghai Sharks: The Move Explained
After the Grizzlies waived Russell, the team made him a free agent. The 17‑year veteran subsequently signed with Shanghai, a club that captured the 2025‑26 CBA championship in June. The Sharks are looking to build on that title, leveraging Russell’s experience to bolster their roster for the next campaign.
A Decade‑Long NBA Journey Before the Chinese Leap
Russell was selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2015 NBA Draft. He earned his first All‑Star nod in 2019 with the Brooklyn Nets and has since bounced among several franchises, including the Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Lakers again. His NBA résumé includes 655 regular‑season games, where he averaged **17 points, 3.3 rebounds and 5.6 assists** per game, shooting **42.7% from the field** and **36.3% from three‑point range**.
Recent NBA Stint and Statistical Snapshot
Before his Grizzlies release, Russell spent parts of the last two seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, appearing in 26 games during the 2025‑26 campaign. He posted a modest **10.2 points and four assists** per game while primarily playing off the bench. His inclusion in the Anthony Davis trade last February signaled a shift in the Mavericks’ plans, ultimately leading to his departure from the NBA.
Shanghai Sharks: A League Power with NBA Talent
The Sharks are not newcomers to attracting NBA talent. Their 2025‑26 championship run was the team’s first title since Yao Ming led the franchise to glory 24 years ago. Current NBA‑experienced players on the roster include **Brandon Goodwin**, a four‑year NBA veteran, and former NBA center **Hassan Whiteside**, who won the championship with the club but now faces a potential league ban.
Other notable former NBA players who have donned the Sharks’ jersey include **Gilbert Arenas**, **Michael Beasley**, **Eric Bledsoe**, and **Delonte West**. The blend of established international stars and returning American players positions Shanghai as a compelling destination for players seeking a new challenge.
Key Career Highlights
- 2015 NBA Draft – Selected 2nd overall by Los Angeles Lakers.
- 2019 – First All‑Star appearance with Brooklyn Nets.
- Career averages: **17.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 5.6 APG**.
- Shanghai Sharks – Joined for the 2025‑26 CBA season.
Shanghai Sharks’ Roster Highlights
| Player | NBA Experience | Current Role |
|---|---|---|
| Brandon Goodwin | 4 seasons | Wing/Scoring guard |
| Hassan Whiteside | 7 seasons | Center (championship winner) |
| Gilbert Arenas | 10 seasons | Shooting guard (memorable comeback) |
What Russell’s Transfer Means for the CBA and Himself
Russell’s move underscores the CBA’s growing allure for veteran NBA players seeking brighter contracts, more prominent roles, and a chance to compete for titles. For the 30‑year‑old guard, the shift offers an opportunity to extend his career in a league that values experience and leadership. The Sharks, fresh off a championship, view him as a strategic addition to mentor younger talents while providing a reliable secondary scorer.
Fan interest in the CBA has surged, partly because of high‑profile signings like Russell. Analysts predict that his presence could elevate broadcast ratings and attract broader international attention, further cementing the league’s reputation as a viable post‑NBA destination.
Conclusion
D’Angelo Russell’s journey from the NBA to the Shanghai Sharks marks a notable transition in professional basketball. After a distinguished 11‑season career highlighted by an All‑Star selection and consistent production across multiple franchises, Russell is poised to bring his ball‑handling finesse and clutch demeanor to a Chinese league eager for veteran leadership. As he steps onto the CBA court, fans and analysts alike will watch whether his experience can help the Sharks maintain their championship momentum and whether this move re‑ignites his own aspirations for another title.
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