NBA legend brings magic to Guizhou Village Basketball Association

McGrady engages with grassroots basketball players and fans on the court in Taipan village. [Photo/ddcpc website]

Former NBA star Tracy McGrady visited Taipan village in Taijiang county, Southwest China's Guizhou province, on Aug 9, engaging in Village Basketball Association (Village BA) activities with players, fans, and spectators.

Taipan is hailed as the birthplace of the Village BA. In July 2022, the first Village BA tournament was held in the village and went viral online, sweeping domestic and international platforms.

Over the past three years, Village BA has maintained its popularity, amassing over 100 billion online views as of July this year. The event draws tens of thousands of spectators and has attracted active and retired NBA stars, including Jimmy Butler, Allen Iverson, Stephon Marbury, and Danny Green.

As a former teammate of Chinese NBA icon Yao Ming, McGrady enjoys immense popularity among Chinese fans. His visit has injected fresh momentum into Taipan's development.

On the court, several Village BA players paid tribute by attempting shots reminiscent of McGrady's legendary 13 points in 35 seconds during his NBA career. McGrady joined them in an enthusiastic shooting contest and offered real-time guidance to young players on dribbling and shooting.

"While striving to play your best, spend more time watching your favorite players' games," McGrady advised the young athletes. "Train yourself to emulate their techniques and become the player you aspire to be."