China’s Guo Ailun becomes 1st international athlete to have signature Jordan shoe

China’s Guo Ailun. INQUIRER.net File Photo

Filipinos are certainly all too familiar with China’s dynamic point guard Guo Ailun, who most recently signed with the Jordan Brand.

The 23-year-old standout, who plays for the Liaoning Flying Leopards of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) and a fixture for the country during international competitions, will even receive his own signature Jordan shoe, according to ESPN’s Nick DePaula.

“The fans here in China are all proud of me,” Guo, who will earn roughly $3 million annually for his endorsement, told the sports journalist. “My teammates always tease me though, and ask for free Jordans.”

China, of course, has become a hotbed for basketball in recent years and having one of its local rising stars don the brand could establish a major influence over the insatiable market.

After making an impact in the country’s local scene, Guo made himself known to fans across the globe, starring alongside NBA veteran Yi Jianlian en route to leading China to the gold medal in the 2015 FIBA Asia Championship.

Standing 6’4, Guo could easily transition to both guard spots and plays with a bold flair not often seen among Chinese players.

Asked if he’ll soon follow the footsteps of another Chinese star, Zhou Qi, who recently signed with the NBA’s Houston Rockets, the new Jordan Brand athlete offered a humble response.

“CBA is a really competitive league, and I think I can keep improving there. Once I feel ready and at that level, I want to go to the NBA,” he said. Khris Ibarrola /ra