Yi Jianlian, was also part of the Chinese Olympic squad, but did not go to Hong Kong, but was nearby in Shenzhen for a promotional shoot.

The big man will be doing less of that on the Chinese mainland as he prepares for the upcoming NBA season, after signing with the L.A. Lakers, inking a 1-year, 8-million dollar deal.

The six-foot 11 inch Yi, signed in L.A. after a solid Olympics, where he averaged more than 20-points a game. He was a bright spot for a China team that lost all five of its group games.

The 28-year-old, last played in the NBA during the 2011-12 season with Dallas. He was originally selected sixth overall by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2007 draft.

Yi has spent the last four seasons with CBA Guangdong Southern Tigers.

He has had his most success in the Chinese league, winning four championships, two Domestic MVPs and two Finals MVPs. Last year when he averaged 26.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, per game, and he hopes that he can make an impact in the North American league.

"I played in the NBA for five years, before returning to CBA for another four years. In ten years, I competed in two Olympics, and in several Asian Championships. I think I have improved a lot, both in terms of my mental strength and my skills," he said.