JR Smith receives a courtside treatment after getting injured during a game between Guangdong Hongyuan and Zhejiang Chouzhou in the first round of Chinese basketball Association league on Sunday. [Photo/Xinhua]

Denver Nuggets' free agent J.R. Smith got injured in his debut in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league on Sunday night.

Further medical examination was needed, Zhejiang Chouzhou head coach Ding Wei said.

J.R. Smith, now playing for Zhejiang Chouzhou, used to be a shooting guard and three-pointer elite of Denver Nuggets. He turned to the CBA league as a result of the NBA lock-out.

In the first round of the CBA new season yesterday, defending chamions Guangdong Hongyuan led by Washington Wizards' free agent Yi Jianlian of China crushed Zhejiang Chouzhou 111-78.

Smith faltered after a quick attack in the fourth quarter and could hardly stand on his feet afterwards. He received simple treatment beside the court.

"Smith's injury hurts very much. He needs to go to the hospital for further examination," Ding Wei said in the post-match press conference.

About 40 minutes after the game, Smith left the stadium with tears on his face, being handed by others.

Smith got 20 points, five rebounds and four assists in his CBA debut.

Founded in 1995, the CBA league has become a preferred destination for the players fleeing the NBA lock-out. Big names also include Kenyon Martin, Wilson Chandler and Aaron Brooks.