(sabasports report) Zach Edey, 22, officially became an NBA player when he was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the ninth overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Not only does the 7-foot4-inch center play for Canada in the 2023 Men’s Basketball World Cup, he is also one-quarter Chinese. His grandfather is from Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, so Eddie is also a Chinese footballer.
In an interview, Mr. Zach Edey revealed his Chinese name, Zhou Zhihao. “I’m Zach Edey, or Zhihao Zhou,” he said of his Chinese identity. “It’s cool to be in the NBA as an Asian player, and I think I get some appreciation from people like my mom.” He further added: “When she met Jeremy Lin in the past, it was a shock to her, and I kind of understand now what it means to an Asian friend to have another Asian athlete who is respected and expected in the NBA. I have a new understanding!”
Zach Edey‘s Chinese identity has not only attracted attention in North America, but also aroused wide discussion in Asia, especially in China. As a player of Chinese descent, his success will inspire more Asian youth to pursue their basketball dreams. Eddie hopes that his performance in the NBA will not only bring victory to the team, but also become a role model for Asian players and inspire more people to pay attention to and participate in basketball.
In the new season, Eddie will face a challenge from the top players in the league, and his performance is highly anticipated. Memphis Grizzlies fans also have high hopes for the rookie to play an important role in the team. Zach Edey‘s NBA journey has just begun, and his future is full of possibilities.