J. Cole's one-game CBA stint ends with criticism from Fat Joe
Rapper J. Cole briefly joined the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) earlier this year. His stint with the Nanjing Monkey Kings lasted just one game before he left the team. The move sparked discussion among fans and fellow artists, including Fat Joe, who criticised the performance. J. Cole signed a contract with the Nanjing Monkey Kings in early 2023. His debut—and only appearance—came on April 11, where he played around eight minutes. During that time, he recorded no points, one rebound, and one assist.
After the game, the rapper chose not to continue with the team. Meanwhile, Fat Joe commented on the situation, calling out Cole’s lack of basketball skill. He claimed the artist was 'ran out' of the league and wasn’t a 'real hooper'. Despite the criticism, Fat Joe acknowledged the CBA’s overall talent level. Cole’s focus has since shifted back to music. He released *The Fall Off* in February 2023 and is preparing for a summer tour in July to promote the album.
The short-lived basketball experiment ended after a single game in China. Cole’s return to music includes a planned tour starting in July. The episode remains a notable moment in his career outside of rap.
