Zhang Ning, a key player in China’s 3×3 men’s basketball team, is gearing up for his Olympic debut at the Paris Games. The 27-year-old has rapidly become the backbone of the team after transitioning to the smaller format just last year.
Zhang’s journey has been filled with challenges. In May 2023, during the World Cup qualifiers, he faced a setback when he was penalized for three technical fouls in a single game. This resulted in a defeat and the team’s failure to qualify for the finals.
Undeterred by this disappointment, Zhang made a remarkable comeback. In October, at the Chengdu Masters, he led his Serbian Liman team to victory, becoming the first Chinese player to earn the MVP trophy at the event, where he also emerged as the top scorer.
As China enters the Paris Olympics ranked third in the world, hopes are high for an improved performance following their eighth-place finish in Tokyo three years ago. Zhang, who did not compete in Japan, is now eager to make his mark on the Olympic stage.
“I want to enjoy playing at the Paris Olympics,” Zhang shared. He emphasized that 3×3 basketball is about “small interactions between players” and requires a unique mindset. Zhang is eager to fully immerse himself in the experience, bring out his best, and help steer the team towards victory.
With his determination and recent successes, Zhang Ning is poised to lead China’s 3×3 basketball team to new heights in Paris, embodying the spirit and resilience that have defined his career.
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Olympics: Zhang Ning eager to 'enjoy playing' basketball in Paris
cgtn.com
