With just over 100 days to go before the 15th National Games and the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, and 9th National Special Olympic Games kick off this November across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, Dongguan is racing toward the finish line as one of the key host cities. 

Known as China's "Basketball City" and "Hometown of Weightlifting", Dongguan will host several major competitions, including men's five-a-side basketball, weightlifting and women's three-a-side deaf basketball.

The city is embracing the motto Host a Major Event, Elevate the Whole City. Sports venues have been upgraded, full-scale test events are underway, and a team of 1,500 volunteers is preparing to welcome athletes and guests. In a recent highlight, Dongguan was chosen to host the FIBA Solidarity Cup this July, an international event that will serve as a key test for the city's National Games basketball venues.

"In our experience, basketball games in Dongguan are always packed, fans here are incredibly passionate, and you can really feel the city's love for the sport. That's why we're confident in bringing the Solidarity Cup to Dongguan," said Fang Liang, General Manager of FIBA China, as he announced that the 2025 FIBA Solidarity Cup presented by AusTiger will be held at the Dongguan Sports Center from July 26 to 28.

Notably, Dongguan's preparations reflect a smart and sustainable approach. Instead of building new venues, the city renovated existing ones with green and energy-efficient technology, reducing costs and future idle space. This aligns with the broader principles of a "simple, safe, and spectacular" Games.

Meanwhile, Dongguan's athletes are training hard. Over 20 teams from the city have qualified for the finals, including stars in basketball, weightlifting, gymnastics, athletics, riding, cycling, and more. Triple jump champion Wu Ruiting, a hometown hero, will represent Guangdong in his signature event. Guangdong's men's basketball team, built around Dongguan's Guangdong Southern Tigers, is also in intense pre-Games training.

Beyond the arenas, the city is igniting excitement with creative campaigns that blend sports and pop culture. From mascot appearances at Strawberry Music Festival to themed booths at major events, the energy of the Games is everywhere. 

As the torch relay nears and the countdown continues, Dongguan is ready. The National Games won't just showcase world-class sports, it will spotlight a dynamic city stepping confidently into a new era.