Li Nan
Key Career Moment of Li Nan
Li Nan made history in 2004 when he became the first Chinese basketball player to win an NBA championship ring as a member of the San Antonio Spurs. Though he saw limited playing time, his presence on the roster marked a milestone for Asian players in the league.
Li Nan may refer to: Li Nan (actor), Chinese actor in the TV series My Fair Princess; Li Nan (basketball) (born ), Chinese basketball coach and former player; Li Nan (footballer), .
His most iconic moment came in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he helped China reach the quarterfinals, hitting a crucial three-pointer against Germany to secure victory.
Li Nan showed the world that Chinese players belong on the biggest stage, said Yao Ming after the game.This performance cemented his status as a national hero.
Unique Skill of Li Nan
Li Nan was known for his exceptional off-ball movement and three-point shooting.
Unlike many guards of his era, he thrived without dominating the ball, using sharp cuts and quick releases to punish defenses.
His ability to read defenses and find open spots made him a perfect fit in team-oriented systems, both in the NBA and internationally.
Li Nan's Stats
- 2004 NBA Champion with the San Antonio Spurs
- Career 42.5% three-point shooter in the CBA
- Two-time CBA Finals MVP (2007, 2011)
Li Nan's Legacy in the NBA
Li Nan's career bridged the gap between Chinese basketball and the NBA, inspiring future stars like Zhou Qi and Guo Ailun.
Though his NBA stint was brief, his success in the CBA and international play proved that Chinese players could compete at the highest level. A unique fact: Li Nan once scored 49 points in a CBA playoff game, setting a record for Chinese guards that stood for nearly a decade.
Li Nan is a basketball player born on Septem in Fuxian.
Today, he remains a respected coach and analyst, shaping the next generation of basketball talent in China.