After a home loss to the Shenzhen Leopards, the Zhejiang Golden Bulls wrapped up a season marked by ups and downs. The team started poorly, suffering a shocking defeat to the Ningbo Rockets on opening day, which led to the dismissal of head coach Ding Wei. Finishing in the top eight met the team’s goals, but questions now surround star guard Wu Qian. With his max contract expiring and his performance declining this season, retirement is a real possibility.
Following the end of the season for the Shandong Heroes, the future of Tao Hanlin has become a hot topic among fans. The veteran center has previously hinted at retirement. According to Shandong media reports, the team is making every effort to retain Tao Hanlin, recognizing the difficulty of finding a quality center. If he retires, the team’s strength would be significantly weakened.
Once one of the CBA’s top shooters, Wu Qian has seen his stats decline over the past two seasons. This season, he averaged just 6.2 points per game, his lowest in 12 seasons, with a three-point shooting percentage of only 29%. He also averaged 1.5 turnovers per game. More critically, his physical condition has deteriorated, lacking the strength for effective defense and physical play. This season, he has already taken a step back, with Cheng Shuai Peng and Li Yuezhou taking the lead in the backcourt.
Wu Qian has been serving as a player-coach this season. When his max contract ends, it is highly likely he will fully retire, though he may continue in a coaching capacity with a greater focus on coaching duties.
Tao Hanlin, nicknamed “Little Shark,” is now approaching 35 years old. While his stats have improved this season, there are clear signs of fatigue, especially given his weight and the time needed to recover. During the 12-to-8 playoff series against the Liaoning Flying Leopards, Tao Hanlin stated that if they didn’t win, he would retire. After being eliminated by the Shanghai Sharks, his emotional reaction suggested he is seriously considering hanging up his sneakers.
According to Shandong media, the team’s plan is to do everything possible to extend Tao Hanlin’s contract. The scarcity of quality centers makes his retention a top priority for the Shandong Heroes’ future competitiveness.
