Players compete in a basketball game in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, on June 17. [Photo/Zhejiang Daily]

Dachen town in Yiwu witnessed the exciting commencement of the "Village Basketball Association" games on June 17.

The tournament features 19 teams, with 14 of them representing their villages. The competition is divided into three stages: group round-robin matches, crossover elimination matches, and the finals.

With three game venues and four match days per week, the tournament is scheduled to last approximately 20 days.

Following a brief opening ceremony, an exhibition match took place between the Dachen All-Stars and an international team comprising foreigners from Germany, Senegal, and Rwanda.

The Dachen All-Stars initially fell behind but managed to narrow the point gap and even take the lead for a while. However, with just one second remaining, the international team scored a buzzer-beating shot, leading to a narrow 44-43 win.

Players compete in a basketball game in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, on June 17. [Photo/Zhejiang Daily]

Luo Xiaodong was the highest scorer for the Dachen All-Stars team with 14 points. Luo expressed some disappointment but found motivation in the team's determination and the enthusiasm of the villagers.

He stated, "Although there is a difference in physicality between us and our foreign friends, we turned the tide through sheer determination. In the upcoming matches, we will prepare better and strive to win the championship!"

During the intervals, Dachen town, as the organizer, arranged additional events such as a three-point shooting contest and a family match.

Officials from Dachen town emphasized that there are less than 100 days left until the Asian Games. The current tournament aims to foster a vibrant rural sports atmosphere and enhance the overall physical fitness of the community.