Averaging nearly 22 points a game in three games last week, Chen Hsuan-hsiang earned the nod from members of the National Basketball Writers’ Association as Player of the Week in the Super Basketball League.
The Fu Jen Catholic University product, who began his career with Jeou Tai Technology in 2003 and has since become an icon for Bank of Taiwan, won the weekly honor for the second time this season.
Even though the Bankers are a long way from the top of the ladder with a 7-14 mark and in sixth place, Chen’s leadership and steady offensive production from the perimeter are the main reasons that the Financial Wizards have already exceeded their win total of five from all of last season.
“I’d like to thank the coaches and the front office for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to play,” Chen said after learning of his selection for the award. “It is not easy for someone who has been around since the inaugural season to see as much floor time as I have recently.”
Being one of just a few members of the young Bankers’ team to have played post-season games, Chen is excited about his team’s chances of playing in the new playoff format that caters for six teams instead of four.
“It is great to be selected as the Player of the Week, but it would be even better if we made it into the post-season, because it is a whole new deal,” Chen said.
In tonight’s games, top-ranked Pure Youth Construction face last-place Dacin Tigers in a David-versus-Goliath battle, giving the Cats a chance to show what they are made of against the three-time defending champions.
Norvel Pelle will need every pound and every inch on him to counter the Builders’ newly arrived Garret Siler, who has at least a 40kg weight advantage. With top spot in the standings still up for grabs, Pure Youth will be eyeing a win with the Braves lurking not too far behind.
In the second game, Taiwan Beer will have more than their record to play for as they put their pride on the line against Kinmen Kaoliang, who stole one from them in their previous meeting on Jan. 2 by three points.
Last night’s results:
‧ Bank of Taiwan 64, Braves 59
‧ Taiwan Beer 83, Luxgens 67
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