Teenage basketball sensation Zhang Ziyu wasted no time in announcing her arrival on the professional stage. It took just 12 minutes for her debut with the WCBA (Women’s Chinese Basketball Association) to make headlines.

Playing for Shandong, Zhang and her team defeated Shijiazhuang 106-93 in the 12th round of the 2025–26 season.

She scored 15 points, shooting 6-of-9, and pulled down 6 rebounds in just 12 minutes played.

Head coach Hou Bing was impressed. "Zhang adapts quickly and has a solid debut, but still needs time to adjust to the intensity of the WCBA. It will take time for our team to build chemistry and coordination."

Shandong’s win lifted them to second place in the 12-team standings with an 8-4 record.

Zhang's arrival in the WCBA can kick things off for her on the international stage

Before going pro, she captured eyes at the 2024 FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup. She earned the MVP honors after her 42 points and 18 rebounds performance against Australia.

Despite her potential, Zhang has been left out of the 2026 Beijing World Cup Qualifier squad.

National team coach Gong Luming said the decision was part of her development.

“Promising young players like Zhang Ziyu will get tested, improve themselves, and gain experience in the WCBA league to better contribute to the Chinese women’s basketball,” Gong said.

Written by

Fatema Kapasi

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar