BEIJING (China) - For Jacob Zhu, wearing the red jersey of China at the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup isn't just another opportunity - it's a fulfillment of a life-long dream.
Zhu - whose name is Zhu Zheng - is expected to be one of the leaders of a China team that is competing in the FIBA U19 World Cup for the 13th time. And the guard brings a rich blend of cultures to add dynamics to his game.
The 18-year-old was born in Georgia, USA to a Chinese father and a Jamaican mother. His discipline, quiet confidence and deep-rooted respect for his heritage reflect his Chinese ancestry, while the energy, rhythm and ability to connect effortlessly with people come from his Jamaican side. That unique combination has made him a special talent - a young leader poised to make his mark on the international scene.
Zhu's journey toward wearing the Chinese jersey started years back. His dad made sure Jacob remained connected to his roots, instilling in him a deep understanding of what it means to be Chinese. His discipline and ability to appreciate hard work and unity come directly from those traditions. And now, Jacob is honoring that by choosing to represent the land of his ancestors on the greatest stage.
It's something bigger than basketball, greater than myself.
"It's something bigger than basketball. It's honoring my family, my culture and a part of who I am," Zhu said. "Every time I put on that jersey, I know I'm playing for something greater than myself."
The FIBA U19 World Cup will a tough battleground. China find themselves in Group B alongside European champions Germany, powerhouse Canada and Slovenia. But Zhu relishes the tough task ahead.
"I love the challenge. It will push us to grow, and I'm ready to compete," he said.
Zhu makes up a strong core of leaders along with the Huan twins Sinan and Sifeng and Boyuan Zhang. And the guard believes their unity and complementary skills will be a key strength when the competition starts.
We're dangerous
"It's a team with a lot of potential. Guys like Boyuan, the Huan twins, we all bring something different. We're dangerous when we come together."
Zhu is a student of the game, a young guard who has studied players like Steph Curry and Trae Young. His high school coach, former NBA veteran Chuck Person, has instilled in him the discipline and professionalism required to perform at a high level.
"Coach Person taught me how to carry myself, how to lead and how to stay focused - no matter what," Zhu explained.
Zhu's style — a mix of confidence, ball handling and scoring ability — has earned comparisons to Trae Young, a comparison Zhu finds flattering and motivational.
China has made it past the top eight at the FIBA U19 World Cup only once in its history. Zhu said he sees this not as a limitation but as an opportunity to raise the bar.
We have room to grow
"We have room to grow. I want to help us go further and be part of a team that rewrites that history," Zhu said.
Whether it's honoring his ancestry, making his country proud or proving himself against the world's best, Zhu is ready to embrace the moment. His debut with the Chinese national team is more than just a milestone in his career - it's a fulfillment of a life-long dream.
"It's a surreal feeling, a full-circle moment. I grew up watching and studying this game, and now I'm here. I want to show what we can do on the world stage - what I can do for my team, my country and myself."
FIBA