After Official Return to Guangdong, Zhou Peng Shares Emotional Message; Team Owner Makes Key Decision, Yi Jianlian and Wang Shipeng Also in Talks?

On August 29 Beijing time, Guangdong announced this morning that Zhou Peng has returned to his former team and signed a one-year contract. Zhou is essentially set to retire in Guangdong. After the announcement, Zhou also shared an emotional message, saying he wants to leave his remaining strength to Guangdong and help the team make a push for the championship. In addition to Zhou Peng, Guangdong is also inviting two legends, Yi Jianlian and Wang Shipeng, to return and continue helping the team in non-playing roles.

Zhou Peng posted a lengthy message on social media, saying that his bond with Guangdong has long gone beyond basketball itself. “Four years ago I did not understand this, but now I do. My feelings are as excited as when I signed my first youth team contract.” Zhou emphasized that this return is not for fame or fortune, but for his desire to compete and pursue championships.

“I am willing to give, willing to improve, and willing to fight. I want to leave my remaining strength to Guangdong. I firmly believe I can help the team challenge for the championship, return in front of familiar fans, and step onto this journey home.”

Zhou Peng's goal is clear: his return is to help the team compete for the championship. This is very similar to Su Wei's return to Guangdong from Qingdao in the past. At a team meeting, Su said he gave up his leading role in Qingdao and returned to Guangdong because he wanted to fight again. Now Zhou Peng could follow Su's example and help Guangdong challenge for another title.

It is worth noting that besides Zhou Peng's confirmed return, the team owner is also inviting other former team stars back. Yi Jianlian and Wang Shipeng are among those being invited. Both Yi and Wang have already transitioned into new roles, and if they return, they would most likely serve as team leaders, executives, or consultants, helping the team in their own ways. However, both are still considering the possibility, as they have their own careers and cannot devote themselves entirely to the team. Regardless, this move by the team owner is considered a thoughtful decision. Guangdong has always placed great importance on tradition and relationships, and that has remained unchanged from the past to the present.