NBA legend Yao Ming inspires rural students at national basketball finals

NBA legend Yao Ming inspired hundreds of young athletes as he attended the 15th Yao Foundation Basketball Season National Finals in Enshi, Hubei Province.

The tournament brought together basketball teams from rural primary schools across China, with Yao encouraging participants both on and off the court.

The championship game delivered a thrilling finish as Tuanjie Primary School from Fujian Province defeated Fuyan Town Central School from Yunnan Province 79-77, securing victory with a basket just 1.5 seconds before the final buzzer.

Organisers said the annual event aims to promote basketball and provide sporting opportunities for children in rural communities while encouraging teamwork, confidence and healthy lifestyles.