Nets Take a Calculated Risk with Fanbo Zeng’s Exhibit 10 Deal
The Brooklyn Nets have made a strategic move by signing Fanbo Zeng to an Exhibit 10 deal, a decision that encapsulates the essence of low risk and potential high reward. This development signals a significant opportunity for Zeng, who is looking to carve out a permanent spot on an NBA roster.
Zeng’s Journey to Brooklyn
Fanbo Zeng’s path to this point has been anything but conventional. After going undrafted in 2022 following a notable year with the G League Ignite, Zeng opted to bypass a college career at Gonzaga, where he was initially committed. His decision to join the Ignite instead has allowed him to showcase his talents, yet his NBA opportunities have been limited to a brief stint with the Indiana Pacers during the summer league.
At 22 years old, Zeng has demonstrated his scoring prowess during his tenure in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he played for the Beijing Ducks. Over three seasons, he never averaged less than 10.3 points per game, culminating in a standout 2024-25 season where he posted nearly 15 points per game while shooting an impressive 53% from the field.
Adjusting Expectations
The recent agreement with the Nets, while promising, comes with its challenges. Initially thought to be a precursor to a two-way contract, the shift to an Exhibit 10 deal indicates the Nets’ desire to keep their roster options flexible. This decision slightly diminishes Zeng’s security on the team, making him a more expendable asset as he heads into training camp.
Zeng brings a unique set of skills to the Nets’ frontcourt. Unlike established centers Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe, who are both solid but limited in their versatility, Zeng has the potential to stretch the floor. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc—evidenced by his 40% shooting from three last season—sets him apart, adding a new dimension to Brooklyn’s game plan.
A Developmental Project
However, Zeng is a project. The Nets’ coaching staff, led by Jordi Fernandez, will need to invest time and resources into his development. Adjusting to the NBA level can be a steep learning curve, and if he requires more focused attention, the Long Island Nets could serve as a valuable platform for his growth.
As the Nets prepare for training camp, the spotlight will be on Zeng. Fans will be eager for insights and highlights that reveal whether this low-risk commitment could blossom into a significant asset for the team. For the Nets, having a clear plan for Zeng is reassuring, and it adds an intriguing subplot to the upcoming season.
