Recently, Legal Vision officially released its Premium Legal Services Guide (2026). In the Entertainment and Sports practice area, Mr. Zhu Xiaosu, Vice Chair of the Management Committee and Senior Partner at Watson & Band, was recognized as a "Leading Lawyer" , while Senior Partner Mr. Zhang Sijie was named a "Mastery Lawyer" . This marks the second consecutive year since 2025 that both partners have been recommended by Legal Vision in this sector.

According to the Guide, the "Leading Lawyer" category recognizes practitioners who regularly handle complex, technically demanding mandates, actively contribute landmark cases and thought leadership to the industry, and significantly drive their firm's practice development. The "Mastery Lawyer" category honors core team leaders with extensive practical experience, strong project leadership in complex matters, and outstanding client acclaim in high-stakes cases. The repeat inclusion of Mr. Zhu and Mr. Zhang underscores the sustained depth and delivery excellence of Watson & Band's Entertainment and Sports practice.

Mr. Zhu Xiaosu specializes in media, culture, and entertainment law, possessing extensive experience in copyright transactions, project collaborations, and dispute resolution involving film, television, and theatrical productions. Known for integrating commercial pragmatism with tailored legal solutions, he delivers actionable, comprehensive counsel to clients across the entertainment and sports sectors. As Vice Chair of the Management Committee and Senior Partner, Mr. Zhu also plays an active role in the firm's governance and specialization initiatives.

Mr. Zhang Sijie focuses on intellectual property and complex commercial dispute resolution, with a particular emphasis on the digital entertainment industry. He has built a strong track record across new-economy sectors—including online gaming, digital literature, long- and short-form video platforms, and MCN agencies—and has represented clients in numerous high-profile IP and unfair competition disputes. As a Senior Partner, Mr. Zhang serves as a key pillar of the firm's IP and entertainment litigation practice.

Looking ahead, Watson & Band will continue to draw on its deep expertise in media, entertainment, sports, and intellectual property to deliver premier, efficient legal support to clients across the cultural and sports industries