The Brooklyn Nets’ new Chinese player Cui Yongxi (also known as Jacky Cui) turned heads in the team’s recent preseason win over the Washington Wizards, demonstrating why he’s one of the most exciting young talents to watch in the NBA. Wearing No. 8 on his jersey — a number he chose for its significance as a lucky number in Chinese culture — Cui seized the moment when head coach Jordi Fernandez gave him his first NBA minutes at home. The 21-year-old made the most of it, delivering an amazing performance with a late-game three-pointer that had fans and teammates on their feet, showcasing his potential and readiness for bigger responsibilities. “I had nothing in my mind. When I’m open, I just shoot straight to the hoop. Score or not, it didn’t matter because I was focused on the game with my teammates on defense,” Cui explained via the New York Post.

Cui’s Brooklyn Nets teammate Cam Thomas spoke highly of his impact on the game via Vavel, saying, “Everybody was lit. It’s definitely good because everybody can see that we all like each other and want to see each other succeed. No matter who it is. That’s something that Coach Jordi Fernandez has been preaching to us — just being together as a team and that is helping us create relationships with each other.” Coach Fernandez echoed these sentiments, noting how happy the team was for Cui and emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships within the squad.

The game concluded as a 131-92 victory for the Nets, with Cui scoring five points and grabbing one rebound in the last minutes of the game. His potential didn’t go unnoticed by fans, who couldn’t help but compare him to former Nets sharpshooters, with one Instagram user, hangry.insomniac, commenting, “Joe Harris replacement? Yuta Watanabe successor?” The buzz surrounding his performance signals that expectations are growing for the young player as the regular season approaches. Another Instagram user, _kidfrom, expressed the growing excitement around Cui, commenting, “He’s gonna need more minutes 🔥🔥,” emphasizing the rising demand for him to see more court time.

Fans and analysts are eagerly looking ahead, excited to see how Cui’s role evolves with the Brooklyn Nets. His ability to stay calm under pressure, combined with his sharp shooting and team-oriented mindset, signals a bright future. The preseason has given a glimpse of what he’s capable of, and with the regular season just around the corner, the expectations are high.

Banner image via Nets Nation.