Darius Bazley Returns to CBA: Signs with Ningbo Rockets
Darius Bazley Returns to Chinese Basketball Association with Ningbo Rockets
Darius Bazley, a 25-year-old American professional basketball player, has signed with the Ningbo Rockets of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). This marks a return to the CBA for Bazley, who previously played for the Guangdong Southern Tigers last season.
The Ningbo Rockets announced the signing on February 22, 2026, stating that Bazley will undergo a trial period with the team. A post on the team’s Instagram account welcomed Bazley, stating, “Welcome to join us Darius!”
During his previous stint in the CBA with Guangdong Dongguan, Bazley averaged 12.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 2.8 assists in 24 minutes per game, according to Sportando Basketball.
Bazley’s professional career has spanned both the NBA and international basketball. He was originally drafted 23rd overall in the 2019 NBA draft by the Utah Jazz, but was immediately traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He spent four seasons with the Thunder before being traded to the Phoenix Suns in February 2023.
Following his time with the Suns, Bazley’s NBA journey included stints with the Delaware Blue Coats, Philadelphia 76ers, Utah Jazz, Salt Lake City Stars, and a return to the Guangdong Southern Tigers. He briefly played for the Guangdong Southern Tigers in November 2024 before joining the Delaware Blue Coats and Leones de Ponce in Puerto Rico.
Prior to his professional career, Bazley was a highly-regarded high school prospect, earning McDonald’s All-American honors in 2018. He initially committed to Syracuse University but ultimately chose to bypass college basketball, intending to join the NBA G League. He instead spent a year training independently with New Balance before entering the NBA draft.
Last offseason, Bazley attempted a comeback with the Los Angeles Lakers’ Summer League team but suffered a significant right leg injury during a game in Las Vegas, requiring him to be taken off the court in a wheelchair. The signing with the Ningbo Rockets represents his first contract since sustaining that injury in July 2025.
Bazley is a power forward who stands 6 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 216 pounds. He has five years of NBA experience and has also demonstrated his versatility by playing both forward and center positions.
The Ningbo Rockets are hoping Bazley’s experience and skillset will bolster their team as they compete in the CBA. His return to the league signifies a continued effort to revamp his career and contribute to a competitive basketball environment.