New York Liberty: Han Xu shines in WNBA debut against former team

Chinese basketball star Han Xu played her first game with the New York Liberty and WNBA showcasing indications possible of greatness throughout the season.

The 19-year-old phenom from China was on full display Thursday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The New York Liberty opened their 2019 preseason schedule with an exhibition matchup against her former Chinese national team.

A buzz would circulate around the arena for more than just the Liberty’s first game in Brooklyn since being sold from the Madison Square Garden company earlier this year. The arrival of highly touted rookie Xu mixed in with their opponents brought many fans of Chinese descent to the arena.

The lively crowd was not disappointed as Xu put on a dazzling performance. She was apparently unfazed by the expected pressures of playing in New York City.

The Liberty struggled through most of the first half before eventually getting hot in the third quarter, with a 12-4 run. New York would pull away later in the fourth quarter to a final score of 89-71 kicking off the new season on a winning note.

The 6-9 rookie finished six-of-eight shooting from the floor and seven-of-eight from the free throw line for 19 points along with five rebounds and three assists. Han shared top scoring honors with teammate Kia Nurse and Liberty All-Star forward Tina Charles contributed 13 points in 15 minutes of action.

In her post-game press conference, Han through an interpreter Hannah expressed her desire to be an inspiration for more Chinese players to make the leap to the WNBA.

"“As for my position in the WNBA, I wish to have stability and learn what I can learn from my experience here and hopefully bring some back with me to China and as for the younger people. I hope I can be an inspiring player to them and motivate people to come out and watch the games and really bring some attention to Women’s basketball.”"

Liberty head coach Katie Smith praised Han’s debut and broke down her intangibles after the game.

"“I thought Han was solid, The one thing we love about her is she’s able to score the basketball in a variety of ways, whether it’s around rim or knocking down 15-17-footers, and even at three-point range, That helps us immensely. Overall I was really pleased by her first game with the Liberty.”"

The Liberty will play a few more preseason games before officially starting the season at home in Westchester on May 24th. It will be interesting to see Han’s progress throughout the preseason to help determine her future playing time and status as a possible center on the frontline with Charles.