That was before he was named NBA Rookie of the Month after averaging 12.1 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in December 2007.

In recent years, Chinese fans have missed having one of their own to cheer in the NBA. However, the significance of the Chinese market has never changed for the league, which always uses the All-Star Game to connect with its fan base in the world's most populous nation.

In 2017, for example, kids from Jr. NBA China were invited on an All-Star Weekend experience in New Orleans; two years later the league used virtual signage during the All-Star Game to wish Chinese fans a "Happy Lantern Festival".

Last year, the NBA acknowledged China's fight against the coronavirus when a message which read "Stay Strong Wuhan" was displayed on the jumbotron at the All-Star Game.