Chen Hui Appointed GM of TPBL's New Taipei CTBC DEA, Emphasizes 'No Issues with Team Culture'

(CNA, Taipei, June 2) The New Taipei CTBC DEA of the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL) announced today that GM Liu Chih-wei will step down following the team's failure to reach the playoffs this season. Chen Hui, a veteran with extensive experience, will officially take over the role. Chen emphasized that there are no issues with the team's culture.

Chen, 48, a former national team player, played eight seasons in the SBL for teams including the Sina Lions, Videoland Hunters, and Taiwan Mobile Cloud Leopards. He was a former assist leader and a member of the All-Star team. After retiring, he coached the Chinese Culture University men's basketball team in the UBA and is now moving into professional team management.

In a statement, the DEA team noted that with Liu focusing on his role as COO of CTBC Entertainment, Chen will take over the management of the team's roster and operational systems. They hope Chen's professional basketball background and administrative experience will help deepen the team's core.

Liu mentioned in a media interview that he had worked with Chen previously at the Videoland Hunters, praising him as a coach who pursues new basketball knowledge and is willing to communicate with players. He expressed gratitude that Chen was willing to join the new environment after his time in academia.

This season, the DEA brought back star player Mohammad Al Bachir Gadiaga and added quality foreign players like Marko Todorovic and Viktor Gaddefors, aiming for a championship. However, the team was plagued by injuries throughout the season and ultimately lost to the New Taipei Kings in the playoffs.

Regarding the off-season, Chen stated he had discussed matters with Liu at length and emphasized that the team culture is sound. He noted that there are many reasons for the poor performance, including injuries, adding, "We are currently discussing everything and will report back as soon as there are results."