October 11, Beijing: Having launched the “Pioneer Camp” in June, aimed at identifying and developing new basketball talent for China, CBA club Beijing Ducks have confirmed the final roster of qualified players to be sent to the US. 

Reportedly, they had selected 13 young basketball players from an original entry of 57 candidates but after negotiations with the parents of these qualified players, only 9 of them were drafted.

According to the project’s schedule, the 9 boys will undergo a 9-month language course upon arrival in the US, after which the Ducks will help them to apply to enter American high schools and join their basketball teams. 

After the boys graduate from high school, they will go to American universities with financial assistance from the CBA club, allowing these boys the chance to compete in NCAA games and fulfil their dreams of becoming professional basketball players.

What is worth mentioning is that the club will cover all the expenditure for these boys’ US tour (except their pocket money). The Ducks have also promised that they have the priority to sign these 9 players if they cannot settle down in the US after graduation. 

Alongside the basketball project, Beijing Shougang Sports, a subsidiary company of the basketball club's owner Beijing Shougang Group, have also introduced a similar project for their ice hockey club in August 2017.

Source: sina

Proofread by Raymond Fitzpatrick