Minnesota Timberwolves player Kyle Anderson Photo: VCG

China's basketball vice chief Xu Jicheng said the naturalization process for US basketball player Kyle Anderson of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves has been progressing smoothly.

"The naturalization process is beneficial for Chinese basketball, but it is not a decision that the CBA can make alone. It involves a lengthy procedure," Xu told reporters. 

"The process is currently progressing smoothly. We urge everyone to be patient and await the outcome. There will be results."

The rumors concerning Anderson's naturalization have thrilled Chinese basketball fans as the national basketball team is preparing for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Anderson, who has one-eighth Chinese heritage, stands at a height of 2.06 meters and is 30 years old. This season in the NBA, he averaged 9.4 points and 4.9 assists. 

In August 2018, Anderson returned to Shenzhen in Southern China's Guangdong Province to reconnect with his Chinese roots. His Chinese name is recorded as "Li Kai'er" in the family genealogy.

Regarding the potential naturalization of Anderson, CBA Chairman Yao Ming has previously said that the CBA has "an open attitude" toward naturalized players.

"[Naturalized players] comply with Chinese regulations, meet FIBA requirements, and integrate culturally. The higher the level, the better. We are not opposed to it," Yao told reporters in May. "The CBA hopes to chart a clear path regarding the issue of naturalized players to avoid flip-flopping."