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Players jump for the ball during a match in Shengzhou, Shaoxing, on June 7. [Photo/Keqiao Media Convergence Center]

The third "Bank of Shaoxing Cup" Village Basketball Association tournament tipped off on June 7 in Ganlin town, Shengzhou — a county-level city under Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. Twelve rural basketball teams from across the city gathered to compete in a series of thrilling matchups.

The tournament is creating new opportunities for rural consumption in Ganlin.

All 12 group-stage matches are being held in the town. One local official noted that the games are accompanied by agricultural product exhibitions, livestreaming sessions, and leisure tourism activities — promoting the integrated development of agriculture, culture, and tourism.

"This year's event is not just about basketball," the official added. "It's about channeling resources, attention, and spending into our villages — activating local communities and enriching the rural cultural-tourism economy."

Compared to last year, this year's tournament places greater emphasis on public participation and audience engagement. Cultural performances, sports outreach programs, and an intangible cultural heritage market have been added, offering a comprehensive showcase of sports, local cuisine, agricultural products, and scenic rural landscapes.