The 2026 China Mini-Basketball Program National Finals concluded on Thursday in Beijing, with more than 2,000 young athletes from across the country competing in the seven-day event.
The program features a lower basket, smaller ball and smaller court, for kids aged between six and 12 years old.
Despite the sized-down setting, the young players arrived at the competition with a large helping of confidence.
"We've got a lot of trust in each other as a team. We move the ball without hesitation. Nobody is shy out there, and everyone’s willing to take their chances and make things happen," said Liang Hengning, a mini-basketball player from Xinjiang.
Ye Hengyan, age ten, came from Ankang City in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. She and her teammates grew up around a whole community passionate for basketball, learning from grownups who take part in China's viral grassroots Village Basketball Association.
"There are a great many excellent players here. All the players in our team are kids from small towns, and we have made it here step by step. I feel very satisfied with this journey, as I have stepped onto a larger stage," said He.
"Our team is united and we cooperate very well on the court," said Ye Hengyan, a player from the same team.
Across the board, the youngsters are hard-working, maintaining a tough balance between sports and school.
"Although I'm playing basketball, I can't neglect my daily study. After I finish my homework every day, I play basketball for an hour in a court downstairs," said Xu Youran, another player from the Shaanxi team.
Big team spirit meets small court at mini-basketball finals in Beijing
