This put An Ji in a difficult position; he had discussed it with Gan Guoyang, who specifically wanted this center, saying he was crucial for the team building.
An Ji was at a loss, persuading with good words on one hand, while looking for another way on the other.
At this time, An Ji's coach selection was also making progress. After repeated selection, he believed that the former Rockets head coach Rudy Tomjanovich was a good choice for the new team's head coach.
Rudy Tomjanovich was a well-regarded good person in the League. Although he didn't achieve great success with the Rockets, his coaching ability and his ability to get along with players were praised by many.
In 1998, he coached the US National Team, and despite no NBA players wanting to participate, won the bronze medal at the World Championship. Brad Miller was in the squad, back when Miller was still a college player.
