Zhang Ning has emerged as a pivotal player for China's 3X3 men's basketball team. At 27, he ventured into the smaller format just last year and has since transformed into the team's backbone after initially facing adaptation challenges.
The road to success wasn't smooth for Zhang. In May 2023, during the World Cup qualifiers, he was penalized for three technical fouls in a single game, resulting in a defeat that cost the team a spot in the finals. This setback was a major disappointment for Zhang and his teammates.
Determined to bounce back, Zhang made a significant comeback at last October's Chengdu Masters. Leading his Serbian Liman team to victory, he became the first Chinese player to win the MVP trophy at the event, also finishing as the top scorer. This achievement marked a turning point, showcasing his resilience and skill.
Looking ahead to the Paris Olympics, China enters the tournament ranked third in the world, aiming to improve upon their eighth-place finish in Tokyo three years ago. Although Zhang did not feature in the Tokyo games, he is now eager to make his Olympic debut and contribute to the team's success.
\"I want to enjoy playing at the Paris Olympics. 3X3 basketball is different from 5-on-5, it's about enjoying the small interactions between two or three players. It's not just a way of playing, it's a mindset. I'm eager to fully immerse myself, bring out my best, and hope to steer the team towards victory,\" Zhang said.
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Olympics: Zhang Ning eager to 'enjoy playing' basketball in Paris
cgtn.com
