Zhang Ziyu: The 7’3 Chinese Basketball Prodigy Breaking Records in 2025
 |
| Woman Power |
Zhang Ziyu – The Rising Star of Chinese Women’s Basketball
China has always produced some of the tallest and most
talented basketball players in the world, and now a new name is making waves – Zhang
Ziyu. At just 18 years old, she is being hailed as the future of Chinese
basketball, with fans calling her the “female Yao Ming.” Standing at an
astonishing 7 feet 3 inches (220 cm), Zhang combines height, skill, and
dominance on the court, making her a force that few can match.
Early Life and Background
Zhang Ziyu was born on May 1, 2007, in Jinan,
Shandong Province, China. Basketball runs in her blood – both her parents
were professional players, and her mother even played for the Chinese national
team. Growing up in a basketball family, Zhang was introduced to the sport at a
very young age. Her extraordinary height gave her a natural advantage, but what
truly sets her apart is her agility and technical skills.
By the time she was in sixth grade, Zhang was already 6
ft 9 in, towering over her classmates. At the age of 14, she became a
social media sensation after dominating a U15 national final, scoring 42
points, 25 rebounds, and 6 blocks in a single game. That performance was
just the beginning of an incredible journey.
Breakthrough on the International Stage
Zhang Ziyu’s international career took off in 2024 during
the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup. Playing for China’s youth team, she stunned
everyone with her dominance. Here are some of her standout performances from
the tournament:
- Debut
vs. Indonesia: 19 points on 9-for-9 shooting with 7 rebounds in just
13 minutes.
- Against
New Zealand: 36 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
- Record-Breaking
vs. Japan: 44 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists – setting a new
tournament record for most points in a single game.
She averaged 35 points and 12.8 rebounds per game
throughout the tournament and was named Most Valuable Player (MVP). Her
incredible efficiency and dominance earned her global attention, with media
outlets describing her as a “cheat code” and “unstoppable.”
Recent Achievements in 2025
Zhang didn’t stop there. In 2025, she made her senior
debut for China’s national team at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup. Despite being
one of the youngest players on the roster, she showcased her talent against
experienced opponents. In a game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, she
scored 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in just 12 minutes.
Her ability to score inside the paint, protect the rim, and
rebound at an elite level makes her one of the most promising players in the
world. Experts believe she could lead China to major international victories
and even become a star in the WNBA in the future.
Why Zhang Ziyu is Special
- Height
Advantage: At 7 ft 3 in, she is among the tallest female players ever.
- Skill
Set: Unlike many tall players, she is agile, has great footwork, and
finishes well around the basket.
- Young
and Talented: At just 18, she already dominates at both youth and
senior levels.
- Global
Potential: With the right training and exposure, Zhang could become
one of the most famous female basketball players in the world.
Awards and Achievements
- MVP
– FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup 2024
- Tournament
Record: 44 points in a single game vs. Japan
- Dominant
Stats: 35 PPG, 12.8 RPG in U18 Asia Cup
- Viral
Sensation: Gained global fame at age 14 for a 42-point game in China’s
U15 finals
- Senior
National Team Debut: 2025 Women’s Asia Cup
0 Comments