He Xining Named Regular Season MVP — Dominant Scoring Lifts Shenzhen’s Ceiling, Eyes Carrying Form into World Qualifiers

On April 26, the Chinese Basketball Association officially announced its 2026 regular season MVP, awarding the honor to He Xining. The decision has been widely accepted, given his outstanding all-around performance throughout the season.

He played all 41 games as a starter, averaging 34.3 minutes, 20.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His efficiency stood out with a 48% field goal percentage, 41.6% from three-point range, and 82.7% from the free-throw line—marking a career-best season.

Notably, He became the first domestic player in CBA history to surpass 100 three-pointers in a single season, while also earning Shenzhen’s first-ever MVP. These milestones highlight both his individual growth and his historical significance for the franchise.

Beyond scoring, his rebounding ability ranks among the best for guards, while his playmaking has improved significantly. Leading the league in minutes played, he demonstrated exceptional durability and consistency.

His leadership was equally impactful. After missing the playoffs last season, Shenzhen rebounded to a 30–12 record, finishing third in the league—solidifying his case as MVP.

At 29, He is in his prime and expected to maintain this level for several seasons. His performance also strengthens his position within the national team, where he has already delivered clutch performances in international qualifiers.

Looking ahead, He Xining is poised to remain a key figure both domestically and internationally.