Following Cui Wanjun created a legendary moment, a game where the Xinjiang Flying Tigers, despite being plagued by injuries, pulled off a stunning comeback against the Beijing Ducks at Wukesong Sports Center. At that time, Beijing’s foreign players were top-tier stars like Marbury and Morris. Xinjiang was trailing by 10 points at halftime but managed to complete a turnaround in the second half, eventually defeating Beijing in a dramatic finish. This unforgettable game left countless fans, especially those in Xinjiang, in awe and sparked a widespread admiration for the Flying Tigers.

The reason this victory is often called a “miracle” is the vast disparity in strength between the two teams. It reflected the power of the Xinjiang Flying Tigers’ spirit, demonstrating how mental strength can turn the impossible into possible. While Xinjiang is currently ranked ninth this season, Cui Wanjun still believes in the team’s potential to achieve great results. He told Xinjiang Morning News that the players are working hard, maintaining high standards in training, and through years of refinement, they have matured. Winning the championship last year was a natural result of many players’ gradual maturation. Despite the many difficulties the team has faced this season, Cui believes their resilience and determination will help them overcome these challenges.

Back in the 2013-2014 season, few people had faith in Xinjiang’s chances, with some veteran mainland journalists considering making the playoffs a success. However, a series of astonishing events followed, with Cui Wanjun winning Coach of the Year and leading his team to the CBA Finals.

Both Hudson and Yang Jingmin were MVP candidates that season, with Hudson ultimately winning the award. When Cui took over the coaching reins of the Xinjiang Flying Tigers from veteran coach Jiang Xingquan five years ago, he ushered in a new era for the team, a post-three-consecutive-second-place era. In this new era, players like Xirelijiang became more determined, Kuranbieke began to mature, and Yu Changdong gained confidence and tenacity. These three players were key to the team’s defense in last year’s finals, and today, they are pillars of both offense and defense for Xinjiang. Returning to Xinjiang, Cui said, “It feels so familiar, like coming home. Xinjiang is my second hometown.”

Born in Dalian, Liaoning in 1970 and standing 1.90 meters tall, Cui was a role model for hard work during his playing days with the Liaoning team. Under his leadership, the team was capable of winning titles with ease, and he became the team’s iron-clad defense. Recognized as an outstanding new-generation coach by both Jiang Xingquan and Gong Luming, Cui Wanjun possesses unique qualities that set him apart.

“There’s no such thing as the best coach; success lies in the details. A coach who continuously learns new philosophies and methods is bound to be an excellent one,” Cui explained. His attitude toward coaching reflects his dedication to constant growth, acknowledging that modern basketball is evolving rapidly. For him, coaching different teams with various playing styles and strengths has been both a challenge and a learning process.

Cui is known for his diligence, humility, rigor, attention to detail, strong communication skills, and ability to inspire his players. These qualities have left a lasting impression on players and media alike over the past five years. He has consistently lifted underappreciated players and teams to new heights, whether with Jiangsu Tongxi or the Xinjiang Flying Tigers, creating remarkable stories. Players such as Zhu Yanxi, Yang Jingmin, Xirelijiang, Kuranbieke, Yu Changdong, Su Wei, and even Liu Shunan and Yu Changchun have made significant career strides under his guidance.

Among all the coaches in Xinjiang’s history, only Li Qiuping and Jiang Xingquan have had better records than Cui. He is the coach who quickly strengthened the Xinjiang Flying Tigers during their rebuilding phase. “I’m grateful for the platform Xinjiang provided me. The players’ fighting spirit was a key factor in my success,” Cui reflected.

Now, as Cui has moved to Guangzhou, he hopes the team can learn from Xinjiang’s passion for basketball, a passion that far exceeds that of many domestic players. “The experience and culture here will always be unforgettable. This is where my coaching career in the CBA began, and I’ve gained so much, learned a lot, and made many friends. Everything here made me feel the warmth of home.”