Shanghai Sharks

The Shanghai Sharks (simplified Chinese: 上海久事大鲨鱼; traditional Chinese: 上海久事大鯊魚; pinyin: Shànghǎi Jǐushì Dàshāyú) are a Chinese Basketball Association team based in Shanghai.

It is best known outside China as the club that developed Yao Ming before he entered the National Basketball Association. With Yao on the team, the Sharks made the finals for three seasons in a row (in 1999–2000, 2000–01, and 2001–02), facing the Bayi Rockets each time. They were runners-up the first two years, but won the CBA championship for the first time on their third try, snapping a string of six Bayi Rockets championships in a row.

In August 1979, the Sharks played the Washington Bullets, when the Bullets became the first NBA team to travel to China.^: 156 The Sharks' center at the time was Yao Zhiyuan, father of Yao Ming.^: 156

The team faced serious financial issues in the 2008–09 season, and were in danger of not being able to compete in the 2009–10 season due to their shaky finances. On July 16, 2009, Chinese media reported that Yao had stepped in to purchase the team.

For the 2021–22 Chinese Basketball Association season, they have been on the country's top teams after they accomplished a major winning streak. The team has been guided by head coach Li Chunjiang.

The team itself has become an internet meme by NBA fans. The team is jokingly referred to as a future landing spot for players, mainly high profile stars, who under-perform in a game or series; particularly in the playoffs.

The Shanghai Sharks are a professional basketball team based in Shanghai, China. They compete in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and are one of the most successful teams in the league. The team was established in 1996 and has since become a powerhouse in Chinese basketball.

The Shanghai Sharks are known for their fast-paced and exciting style of play, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and skillful ball movement. They have a loyal fan base that fills the stands at every home game, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

The team has produced several talented players who have gone on to have successful careers in the CBA and even in the NBA. The Shanghai Sharks have a rich history of success, with multiple CBA championships to their name.

Overall, the Shanghai Sharks are a respected and competitive team in Chinese basketball, known for their exciting style of play and passionate fan base.