TAIPEI (2016 FIBA Asia Challenge) - When Chinese Taipei forward Liu Cheng was named the Super Basketball League MVP two years ago, many Taipei fans felt they had found the next great star who will inherit the mantle of leadership in their national team. He has since become an integral part of Taipei’s men’s squad, averaging 13.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2 assists, and nearly 3 steals per game, headlining the team in their run to second place in the 2014 FIBA Asia Cup.

Their follow-up performance in the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship, however, left much to be desired as they didn’t even manage to make it out of the first round. This time, Liu, armed with more experience and confidence, is hoping to be the spearhead that will lead Taipei back to the top in the 2016 FIBA Asia Challenge.

FIBA.com got in touch with Liu.

FIBA.com: The roster includes names who played for Taipei when the team reached the Final in the 2014 FIBA Asia Cup! Do you think you can repeat that in Tehran?
Liu: We believe that we have great chance to reach to the final this year. Because many players have been playing for a long time together, so reaching the Final is still our goal this year.

FIBA.com: How painful was losing the Final against Iran?
Liu: Indeed, we felt a sense of loss then. However, we learned from that experience, and we believe we have a chance to start again.

FIBA.com: You were outstanding at the 38th William Jones Cup tournament (18.5 ppg), do you think we will see the same from you in Tehran?
Liu: The performance I did in 38th William Jones Cup brought me a lot of confidence in the upcoming games. I believe that I can help my team win the trophy.

FIBA.com: Do you think it’s time for Taipei’s talented youngsters to make the leap and play for the senior national team?
Liu: I feel glad that many young players from Chinese Taipei show their potentials. I think they will join our team in next few years.

FIBA