Former Brooklyn Nets forward Zeng Fanbo, one of China’s top basketball prospects, has been spotted training in Melbourne just weeks after being waived by the NBA club.
The 22-year-old, listed at 208cm ( 6-foot-10), has been working out under Casey NBL1 coach Luke Kendall, a respected figure in Australian basketball circles. Kendall, who served as an assistant coach with the South East Melbourne Phoenix, most recently led the Gujarat Stallions to an Indian National championship at the start of 2025.
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According to multiple sources, Zeng’s presence in Australia has already sparked interest from several NBL teams, with talks reportedly underway regarding a potential contract.
Zeng’s Journey: From Beijing to Brooklyn
Zeng was a four-star U.S. high school recruit and once committed to play for Gonzaga University before opting to join the NBA G League Ignite, where he teamed up with Australian guard Dyson Daniels. After a brief stint with the Ignite, Zeng returned to China, joining the Beijing Shougang Ducks in the CBA, where he averaged 14.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.6 blocks last season.
Zeng signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Brooklyn Nets in August 2025. He then featured in one preseason game for Brooklyn — a 10-minute appearance against the Phoenix Suns in Macao, where he recorded one steal. Though he was waived on October 15, his NBA journey made him just the ninth Chinese player ever to appear in an NBA game.
Following his release, Zeng traveled to Melbourne for rehabilitation and skill development under Australia’s sports science and training network — considered among the best globally for athletic recovery and performance.
For emerging Asian stars, the NBL’s NBA-style pace, shorter 28-game season, and heavy scouting presence make it an attractive development route. Under the league’s Special Restricted Player rule, Zeng would qualify as a local, allowing teams to sign him without using an import slot — a significant incentive for NBL front offices.
What’s Next for Zeng
Zeng’s mix of size, shooting, and mobility makes him one of the most intriguing free agents available in the region. While no deal has been finalized, his workouts in Melbourne have reportedly drawn attention from multiple clubs evaluating their final roster spots ahead of the 2025–26 NBL season.
If signed, he would become the latest in a growing list of international prospects to choose Australia’s league as a stepping stone back to the NBA.
“I’m focused on getting better every day,” Zeng told Chinese media during his time with Brooklyn. “I think I can grow more through competition and the experiences that come with it.”
For now, all eyes are on Melbourne — and on where one of Asia’s most talented young players will make his next move