On July 26, the FIBA Solidarity Cup, a test event for the Men's Basketball (Senior Division) at the 15th National Games, officially tipped off at Dongguan Sports Center.

Backed by 11-time CBA champions Guangdong Southern Tigers, the Guangdong men's team will take on Montenegro, New Zealand, and Brazil in six thrilling games over three consecutive nights (July 26–28), igniting excitement ahead of the 15th National Games.

The young Brazilian squad quickly found their rhythm, capitalizing on New Zealand's turnovers to build a commanding 61-30 halftime lead. New Zealand mounted a fierce second-half comeback, narrowing the gap to 77-68 with just three minutes remaining. However, the rally lost steam after forward Max Darling exited with an injury, allowing Brazil to close out an 85-68 win.

After the game, Gabriel from the Brazil Men's Team shared, "The crowd here was very enthusiastic and energetic, which made us play with great passion. It really allowed us to feel the strong basketball culture of Dongguan, truly a Basketball City."

Notably, several fans wearing Brazil national football jerseys were seated in the front rows inside the arena. They are Brazilian expats living in Dongguan's Dongcheng and Nancheng districts. Excited to see their national basketball team play, they came out in full force to show support.

Daniel, a fan from Brazil, shared, "I've heard that Dongguan is famous for basketball and has a great atmosphere. Tonight's game was fantastic, and I'm very happy that our Brazilian team won."

When asked about the newly renovated Dongguan Sports Center, Faber Santos from Brazil said he often comes here to play basketball with local young players. Seeing the new venue this time, he admitted, "It's very clean and well-organized, and has excellent facilities. The viewing experience is really great!"

As a FIBA-certified international event, the Solidarity Cup, together with the 15th National Games, fully showcases Dongguan's capabilities in hosting major basketball tournaments. It also reaffirms Dongguan's well-earned title of "Basketball City." The warm, passionate basketball atmosphere left a deep impression on Dongguan's international residents, helping them better understand and fall in love with this vibrant city.