Sun Yue, the Chinese rookie for the Los Angeles Lakers was activated last night, and actually saw some playing time in a 105-92 win over the Milwukee Bucks.  Yue was activated after Luke Walton was scratched from the active roster with flu-like symptoms.

And Sun Yue tallied 4 points (2-3FG), 4 personal fouls and 2 turnovers for a anxious, stat-filled FIVE minutes (5:14).

Despite the mixed debut (he scored twice, but also tallied as many fouls as he did points), the hometown fans cheered for the 23-year old from Cangzhou, China.

“I think we were both happy tonight,” Sun said referring to the LA fans,“We both have a great night. I think it was a fantastic night for me, but also a fantastic night for the fans. I showed them something. At least I’m not making them disappointed tonight.”

After missing his first shot, a three point attempt, the left-handed Sun hit his next two shots to score his four points.  He hit 16-foot jumpshot and on a driving layup off a pass from Sasha Vujacic.

The Lakers have asked Sun about spending more time with the NBDL, but Sun Yue hasn’t been nearly as receptive as they would like: “I’m not saying anything about the D-League is bad,” he said. “I just think, when I signed the contract and put my name on the paper, that was an NBA contract. I think the NBA will help me improve much faster.”

“People have been waiting a long time to see the Chinese player and how they do on the basketball court,” said Yue, “I think people think I can play in this league. I just need time to adjust. Myself,  I think I can play in this league.”

Links and Resources: Lakers’ Sun rises to the occasion (Los Angeles Times), Here comes the Sun Yue, a big darling (Contra Costa Times)