Encouraging girls to see net gains

Jin Changsui, the principal of Bayanmankh Central Primary School where the new court was built, hopes the star power of the event will inspire more local children to take up basketball.

"The court is also open to the public. We hope that alumni will return to their alma mater to play, and that basketball enthusiasts from the area will take advantage of this high-quality facility," he said.

As the game finished, students flocked to the three legends, some standing on tiptoes to get autographs on their caps and notebooks.

Among them was Zhang Wuya, a sixth-grader from Bayanmankh Central Primary School.

She developed a love for basketball after first trying it out in the school's basketball interest class last semester.

"I love playing with my friends, and hitting a shot feels so exciting," the 11-year-old explained.

Born into a pastoral family, she carries a ball with her while helping her parents herd sheep, practicing dribbling and shooting wherever she can.

Her father fully supports her passion, and even made a simple basketball hoop at home.

When asked about her happiest basketball moment, Zhang immediately recalls playing with her father at home. Since her father is much taller, it was challenging for her to get the ball.

The normally shy youngster became visibly excited as she recalled with a big smile: "I got so frustrated that I jumped up, grabbed the ball, and made a shot!

"I felt really cool at that moment."

Contact the writers at xingwen@chinadaily.com.cn