MACAO/DONGGUAN, November 13, 2025 — Basketball fever is reaching new heights in Guangdong province as it plays a central role in China’s 15th National Games, currently unfolding across multiple southern venues including Macao and Dongguan. With packed arenas, high-stakes matchups, and standout performances from local talent, Guangdong is demonstrating why it remains a powerhouse not just in China’s economy—but also in its sporting culture.
The men’s 3×3 basketball tournament, held in Macao, has drawn national attention, particularly with Fujian standout Wang Zhelin turning heads in Group B action. However, it’s Guangdong’s broader basketball narrative that is capturing headlines. In Dongguan—a city long celebrated as a cradle of Chinese basketball—the atmosphere has been electric. Local fans have flocked to the Dongguan Basketball Center, transforming every game into a vibrant celebration of community and athleticism.
Recent reports from Bastille Post confirm that the so-called “basketball craze” in Dongguan is more than just hype. Schools, community centers, and even corporate teams have ramped up their involvement, with youth participation spiking in the lead-up to the National Games. Dongguan’s deep-rooted basketball heritage—home to the Guangdong Southern Tigers, one of the CBA’s most successful franchises—has provided fertile ground for this latest surge in interest.
Guangdong’s competitive edge was on full display during the semi-finals of the men’s five-on-five tournament, where the provincial team edged out traditional rival Liaoning in a nail-biting contest. According to coverage from NewsGD, Guangdong’s blend of tactical discipline and explosive scoring proved too much for the defending champions, signaling a potential shift in the national basketball hierarchy. The win not only secured Guangdong a prized spot in the finals but also reignited regional pride among millions of supporters.
Beyond the scores and standings, what truly sets this year’s National Games apart is the emphasis on grassroots engagement and national unity. Guangdong’s multifaceted hosting strategy—spanning venues in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Dongguan—has allowed broader segments of the population to experience elite-level competition up close. Officials from the Guangdong Provincial Sports Bureau have credited this inclusive approach for the unprecedented public turnout and media coverage.
As the 15th National Games continue through mid-November, all eyes remain on Guangdong—not just for its medal count, but for its ability to inspire a new generation of athletes. With 3×3 basketball gaining Olympic prominence and traditional five-on-five remaining a cultural touchstone, the province is positioning itself at the intersection of tradition and innovation in Chinese sports.
Whether it’s the roar of the crowd in Dongguan or the strategic brilliance on the hardwood in Macao, one thing is clear: Guangdong isn’t just competing in the National Games—it’s defining them.
