Fisher does not rule out move to China
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Five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher has not ruled out the possibility of playing in China's domestic league when he retires from the US league.
After visiting the Shanghai World Expo, the 35-year-old point guard, who helped the Los Angeles Lakers defend their NBA title last month, said he was thoroughly enjoying his first tour of China and appeared open to the idea when asked if the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) could be an option for him when he ends his career in the US.
"To be frank, I have never been asked this question before. But you never know in life and I think you always have to be open, following the path that life puts you on sometimes," Fisher told reporters in Beijing, Taipei, Tokyo, Bangkok, Manila, Singapore and Colombo during a Cisco-supported video conference.
"And if that answer has anything to do with my first experience in China, then I can tell you I have really enjoyed the stay here and it would be a lot of fun to do it (play in the CBA)."
Fisher has played in the NBA since 1996 and has won five NBA championships - all as a Laker - from 2000-02 and 2009-10.
Currently a free agent, he is reluctant to talk about the next contract but said he is looking forward to another championship ring, wherever he may end up.
"It is still so surreal," Fisher said of the titles, "I don't play basketball for the trophies or for the championship but it really does give great satisfaction and gratification in terms of my career.
"I'm looking forward to adding more to that figure as my career goes on. I only wear my wedding ring. I don't put championship rings on my fingers because I don't want to feel satisfied with what I have achieved. I want to win more NBA championship rings."
Fisher also said the decision of Lakers' head coach Phil Jackson to return for one more year was a great morale-boost for the players.
"Every player in the team wanted to have him back. There is no question he has really been the biggest leader of the team and there is no question how much he brings in terms of his experience.
"Guys are really excited to have him back. For the Lakers, it is the biggest decision of the summer. It will be great to have him back for another season."
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