Zhejiang Guangsha Lions officially announced Jonathan Gibson

Just days ago, 25-year-old rising star Jonathan Gibson inked a one-year deal to join the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. The team did not release terms of the deal.

Zhejiang Guangsha, which finished 6th last season in CBA standings, seeks to improve its performance in the China Basketball Association (CBA) Playoffs during the 2013-14 season and will be looking to Jonathan to lead the team’s backcourt and provide much needed scoring.

“We are very excited to announce Jonathan’s signing with the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions Basketball Club,” said General Manager Liu Quansheng. “His accomplishments in Europe have shown his ability to deliver wins to the clubs he plays for.”

Jonathan finished second in scoring in Italy Serie A for Enel Brindisi during the 2012-13 season, with 18.4 points per game, shooting 54.2% from 2-point range and 3 pointers with 33.8% accuracy. He led the Turkish League in scoring in 2011-12 with 19.9 points per game for Trabzonspor.

“During our recent U.S. scouting trip, we met with Jonathan and were impressed by his character and thirst for winning,” said Head Coach Li Chunjiang. “I’m confident his quick release shooting and speed will be great assets to our team, and he will provide leadership to his Chinese teammates on and off the court.”

In preparation for the upcoming season, Jonathan has been training in his hometown of Los Angeles. This includes playing in the prestigious Los Angeles Drew League summer basketball league and achieving Top Performer honors three times during the season to date. Other Drew League players include Metta World Peace, Javale McGee and CBA import Pooh Jeter

“I’m honored and excited to be a part of the Zhejiang Guangsha Lions Basketball Club and begin a new chapter of my life in China and the CBA,” said Jonathan.

Jonathan is scheduled to report to Zhejiang Guangsha Lions pre-season training camp in Hangzhou on October 1.