Overview
- The Chinese Basketball Association and the Shanghai Sharks announced Russell's signing on Sept. 30, 2026, marking his first professional season outside the United States.
- Russell became available after the Memphis Grizzlies waived him late September following a multi‑team trade this summer that sent him to Memphis without him playing a game for the team.
- The Sharks have also added veteran center JaVale McGee, giving Shanghai two high‑profile ex‑NBA players on the roster as they defend their CBA title.
- Reporting says Russell had tried to land with an NBA playoff contender but faced limited interest, making a CBA contract a practical option for immediate minutes and pay.
- Russell leaves the NBA after 11 seasons as a former No. 2 overall pick and 2019 All‑Star who averaged about 17.0 points and 5.6 assists, and the move could serve as a platform to rebuild his market value for a possible return.