On the evening of July 19, the first Huazhou rural basketball games opened with a thrilling match at Dongfanghong village. The event has drawn 23 teams from towns and streets across Huazhou, promising a 20-day event.

The rural basketball games have sparked a wave of community involvement in fitness activities, greatly enriching the spiritual and cultural lives of residents.

Prior to the start of the rural basketball games, the hosting team from Jianjiang street underwent rigorous training for over 10 days. Mai Xiaohe, a player, said, "Everyone is excited for this event. We need to prepare thoroughly to welcome teams from other towns and streets for a friendly competition."

Upon learning about the upcoming rural basketball games, Tongqing town selected athletes from 18 villages, igniting the town's summer with a basketball fervor.

During the games, players entering the court first showcased special products from their respective hometowns. Teams like Daqiao Cucumber Team, Nawu Hot Spring Team, and Hejiang Silk Team all represented their town's industries through their team names.

The competition adhered to professional standards in terms of format and rules, featuring not only professional referees and scorers but also professional commentators to enhance the atmosphere. This blend of entertainment and competitiveness added an exciting dimension to the rural basketball games.

To complement the event, organizers set up a "night economy street" along the route in Dongfanghong village and around the basketball court, offering 20 stalls selling food, agricultural products, and cultural and creative items, giving the local community a way to profit from the event.

Players sweat it out on the court. [Photo/Nanfang Plus]