Ex-NBA star Stephon Marbury granted 'talent' admission in 'record-breaking 24 hours'

Former NBA player Stephon Marbury was amazed by the efficiency of the Hong Kong government on Wednesday as his application for the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) was approved "in a record-breaking 24 hours."

The 46-year-old basketball pro, who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1996 to 2009, announced on Tuesday he had applied to the scheme's category A - which requires applicants to have an annual income of HK$2.5 million or more in the year preceding the date of application - for admission to the city.

In a social media post published today (Wed), he wrote that the application was granted "in a record-breaking 24 hours" and that he is excited about coming to Hong Kong more often and helping spread basketball knowledge and culture.

"Hong Kong will be my third home, in addition to my second home in Beijing," he added.

Marbury also played in the Chinese Basketball Association from 2010 to 2018. He then coached the Beijing Royal Fighters for four years before leaving the team in September. In 2015, Marbury received a green card in China.

The basketball star also noted that he has become the ambassador of InspiringHK Sports Foundation with the aim of assisting underprivileged young people in fulfilling their sports dreams.

"I believe Hong Kong has great potential in basketball, and the future lies with these kids," Marbury said.