The Beijing Ducks will have former NBA star Stephon Marbury until 2017. (Photo : Reuters)
Former NBA star Stephon Marbury received a contract extension from Beijing Ducks, making him part of the team until 2017, according to coach Min Lulei.
In a Xinhua report, Min has confirmed the news on Friday during a forum at the Beijing Sports University.
"The team has extended the contract with Marbury for one year until 2017, which means he will play for Beijing for two more seasons," coach Min shared.
Marbury signed a three-year contract in 2013 and was able to bring good results to the Beijing team. He led the group in earning their third and second straight Chinese basketball league tilt.
The 38-year-old player was also hailed the Chinese Basketball Association's (CBA) Most Valuable Player.
Min has also lauded Marbury's significant contributions to the team.
"Although Marbury is almost 40 years old, I believe in his ability and attitude," he remarked.
"The team will give him a proper training schedule, and limit his playing time to save his energy while competing in future games," he added.
Furthermore, Min also noted that the team will also be focusing on developing their domestic players. He said that they must "lift domestic players to a much higher level and allow them to perform their best."
During his stint at the basketball business in the country, Marbury has been regarded as a backbone of the Beijing team.
"I think Marbury represents the spirit of the team. All the players must learn from him. No matter what trouble you meet on the court or off the court, you must have the winning faith, the never-give-up spirit," Min enthused.
Marbury was a two-time NBA All-Star point guard. The Milwaukee Bucks first drafted him into the NBA in 1996. He has also played for the Pheonix Suns, New York Knicks and Boston Celtics.
