Ducks' star Zeng eyes bigger stage

Scoring a career-high 33 points in a single game and earning his first Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) "Player of the Week" honor, 22-year-old forward Zeng Fanbo, once dubbed a "3D player", is now emerging as a franchise cornerstone for the Beijing Ducks.

This season, Zeng has demonstrated increasing maturity, averaging 14.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. His 33-point explosion against the Shandong Heroes — where he shot 11-of-14 from the field, including five three-pointers — showcased his refined offensive arsenal.

He followed that up with 21 points against the Sichuan Blue Whales and 25 points against the Zhejiang Golden Bulls in the next two away games, leading Beijing to five consecutive victories since the CBA's third phase began.