SG/SF Gerald Green played for 4 NBA teams between 2005 and 2008, and experience that might not properly prepared the 2007 Slam Dunk Champion for the culture shock that is the Chinese Basketball Association. While Stephen Marbury is lauded by the New York Times’ William Rhoden for making a surprisingly smooth transition, Green found himself waived by the Foshan Longlions, despite having scored 41 points against Shanghai a week ago (above). From China Daily :
Foshan Longlions Club of CBA told media that it decided to terminate the contract with the 25-year-old forward because he “failed to fit into the tactic system of the whole team,” despite outstanding personal abilities.
“The coach team considered it again and again and made this difficult decision, in order to meet the team’s long-term needs,” the club’s statement said. “We wish Mr Green good luck in his future career, and look forward to cooperating with him again.”
Apart from the statement, Foshan Longlions gave out an interview record with Green, in which he admitted that his next goal was NBA.
Foshan got only one win in its first four matches in this season, ranking 14th place in the league of 17 teams. Green had 26.5 points, 4 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.
“The team needs someone to stand out at the crucial time. I tried to lead the team but maybe I was not doing good enough,” Green said.