Mohammad al Bachir Gadiaga, known as Abbasi, recently announced he is returning to the Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPBL). Specifically, he will rejoin the CTBC DEA. At a press conference on Monday, Abbasi shared his excitement about this decision. Indeed, Abbasi’s return to CTBC DEA is a major boost for both the league and the team.
Abbasi won the TPBL MVP award twice, in 2022 and 2023. However, last season, he played in Japan’s B-league for the Akita Northern Happinets. There, he signed a two-year deal worth NT$10 million per year (about US$339,000). While in Japan, he averaged 22 minutes and 10 points per game over 58 games. On the other hand, his assists were low, just 1.6 per game. Therefore, Abbasi bought out the last year of his contract to return to Taiwan. He said, “Returning to the DEA felt like coming home.”
Abbasi was born in Chiba, Japan, to a Senegalese father and an American mother. Moreover, he moved to Taiwan when he was eight years old. He speaks and reads Chinese fluently. Consequently, under FIBA rules, he qualifies as a local player for Taiwan’s national team. Abbasi began playing at Taishan Junior High School but could not participate due to age rules. Later, he played for Shih Hsin University. Notably, he is the oldest of eight siblings. Furthermore, several of his brothers play basketball in local schools and universities.
Abbasi’s return to CTBC DEA clearly shows his strong bond with the team. He said CTBC treated him like family, even when he was in Japan. For example, the team leader visited Japan with his family to support Abbasi. This gesture deeply touched him. Additionally, CTBC Sports Entertainment Chair Chen Kuo-en called Abbasi a key player. He believes Abbasi will bring fresh energy and help the team reach the playoffs and win the championship.
DEA representative Amy Yang gave Abbasi a framed No. 0 jersey. She hopes he will lead the team with his “signature lightning attack.” Meanwhile, local media report that Abbasi’s salary might exceed NT$25 million per year. If true, this would make him one of the highest-paid players in the TPBL, matching Chinese Basketball Association stars. However, DEA Manager Liu Chih-wei did not confirm the exact figure but said it’s in the eight digits. Moreover, the contract includes three guaranteed years plus two option years.
The DEA finished near the bottom of the league this season. As a result, they failed to reach the playoffs, which are now ongoing between Taipei Kings and Kaohsiung Aquas. Therefore, the team hopes Abbasi’s return will bring success again. Indeed, Abbasi’s return to CTBC DEA is a sign of hope for fans and players alike. With his talent and leadership, the team looks set to rise again. In short, Abbasi’s return to CTBC DEA marks a fresh start. Overall, the upcoming TPBL season looks promising with him back on the court.
