To welcome the 15th National Games, which will be held in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area from Nov. 9 to 21, Pingshan Subdistrict International Block in Pingshan District hosted a basketball game Oct. 25.

Chinese and expat residents pose for a photo after the basketball match at Pingshan Subdistrict International Block in Pingshan District on Oct. 25. Photos from Pingshan Subdistrict Office.

Players from China, Germany, and Brazil were randomly assigned to two teams, fostering interaction and cooperation among participants from diverse cultural backgrounds and placing “communication” above “competition.” During the match, players quickly formed strong bonds; precise passing, intuitive off-the-ball movement and spontaneous high-fives after scoring all reflected the spirit of “friendship first, competition second.”

“Although our native languages are different, on the court, basketball is our common language,” said Chinese player Wu Jiahui. Jana Kunisch from Germany added, “It was amazing. I’m really happy that Pingshan organized this event. I met international and Chinese players here, and maybe we will meet again and play together.”

Chinese and expat residents compete during the basketball match.

Felipe Vieira Setlik from Brazil said he had heard about the National Games and already bought tickets for the rhythmic gymnastics events at Pingshan Sports Center Gymnasium (to be held Nov. 8-10). “I made my first friends in China through work and sports,” he said. “Playing sports is a great way to connect with people and make new friends.”

According to officials from the Pingshan Subdistrict Office, the match aimed to help expats integrate into local life and expand their social circles. In recent years, the subdistrict has improved multilingual services and offered a variety of cultural, arts and healthcare activities in the community, strengthening understanding and ties between Chinese and expat residents.

Chinese and expat players hold their honorary certificates and a trophy after the match.

Pingshan Subdistrict will remain people-oriented, continue to enhance the international block’s environment and services, and ensure that all residents — Chinese and expats alike — feel a sense of belonging, fulfillment and happiness, contributing to Shenzhen’s development as a modern, international and innovative city.