Bayi Rockets' veteran player Liu Yudong was recognized by the Chinese Basketball Association League as the CBA Player with Outstanding Contribution in the League's 10-year history.

The three-time MVP is to be awarded a diamond ring to mark his outstanding service to CBA league on January 19 at Bayi Rockets' home game against Jilin Tigers in Hangzhou, East China's Zhengjiang Province.

The award is voted by CBA teams' head coaches, managers, players who are playing now and CBA officials as well. Votes by fans are also for references.

Liu Yudong, who is nicknamed God of War or Heavy Tank, says he is surprised to win the award because there are so many excellent players deserving the prize.

"The most satisfactory thing for me is that I have helped my team to seven championships in the past decade." Said Liu Yudong, "But the joy is built on the pain of my body." Bayi won six consecutive championships from 1996 to 2001.

Liu Yudong has long been suffered form knee injuries and has taken out 11 fractured bones. He returned to CBA court this season on Bayi's call to lead the young players. However, he reveals that it will probably be the last season he plays.

(CRI January 6, 2005)