Golden State Warriors legend JaVale McGee has officially signed with the Shanghai Sharks in the Chinese Basketball Association, joining fellow former NBA star D'Angelo Russell. The move creates a formidable veteran duo for the reigning CBA champions. This news comes as the current Warriors squad is struggling, having lost three straight games including a 115-110 defeat to the LA Clippers on April 13, 2026.
McGee, a three-time NBA champion, is taking his talents back to China after a 16-year stateside career. He won two of his three rings with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. The 7-foot center last played for the Beijing Ducks, averaging 11.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 26 games. His new team, the Sharks, actually eliminated his Ducks in the CBA semifinals last season.
With no NBA offers this past summer, McGee's overseas journey continues. He brings elite rim protection and championship experience to a Shanghai roster hungry for back-to-back titles. McGee and Russell share several former NBA teams, including the Warriors and Lakers, but they were never direct teammates until now.
D'Angelo Russell's path to China followed a winding NBA exit. The Memphis Grizzlies acquired him in a massive six-team trade this offseason only to waive him on September 25. That decision effectively ended his 11-year NBA run. Russell, a 2019 All-Star, posted career averages of 17.0 points and 5.6 assists.
His role had diminished recently. The Washington Wizards didn't play him after a mid-season trade. So Shanghai represents a fresh start and a chance to rediscover his form as a primary ball-handler. Pairing his playmaking with McGee's interior presence gives the Sharks a dangerous pick-and-roll combination.
While their alumni make headlines abroad, the present-day Warriors are in a tough spot. The team's recent form shows just one win in their last five outings. That stretch includes consecutive losses to the Sacramento Kings, Los Angeles Lakers, and LA Clippers to close the season.
The 115-110 loss to the Clippers on April 13 was their third straight defeat. Before that, they fell 124-118 to the Kings and 103-119 to the Lakers. Their lone recent victory was a 110-105 win over those same Kings on April 8. You can review the full season schedule and results on our schedule page.
This late-season slide highlights the roster transition the franchise is handling. It shows why veterans like McGee and Russell, who once contributed to past glories, are now pursuing opportunities elsewhere. The Warriors' front office has significant work ahead this offseason to rebuild a contender.
On paper, their skillsets complement each other perfectly. Russell needs a reliable finisher for his passes, and McGee thrives as a lob threat and paint protector. Both players have extensive playoff and championship experience, which is invaluable for a team with title expectations.
McGee's familiarity with the CBA from his time in Beijing is a major asset. He understands the league's style and travel demands. For Russell, adapting to a new country and basketball culture will be the immediate challenge. But their shared history with iconic NBA franchises like the Warriors creates an instant bond. Their success could inspire more veterans to see the CBA as a viable and competitive next chapter.
