From July 9 to 11, 2026, the 2026 MEBO–NBA Sacramento Kings International Youth Basketball Exchange Event & Shenzhen “Run! Youngsters” Children and Youth Fitness Campaign Launching Ceremony was successfully held at the Basketball Training Center of Shenzhen Sports Center.

Following previous events in Chongqing and Jinan, the Shenzhen program marked another milestone in the strategic partnership between MEBO Group and the Sacramento Kings, becoming a signature initiative promoting youth development, sports exchange, and people-to-people friendship between China and the United States. The event was co-hosted by the Shenzhen Municipal Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports Bureau, the Sacramento Kings, MEBO Group, and the Sacramento–China Office.

Kevin Xu, Chairman of the Board of Directors of MEBO Group, stated that basketball is not only a sport, but also a bridge connecting people across cultures and borders. Through the annual MEBO–NBA Sacramento Kings Youth Basketball Exchange Program, MEBO Group is committed to creating more opportunities for young people to learn, communicate, and build friendships across the Pacific. This year’s event in Shenzhen also carried special significance as the city prepares to host the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, adding a vibrant youth and cultural dimension to international exchange.

The opening ceremony brought together representatives from government, business, sports, and cultural communities, including Pauline Kao, Consul General of the United States Consulate General in Guangzhou; Antonio Yung, Chief Representative of the Sacramento–China Office; John Rinehart, President of Basketball Operations of the Sacramento Kings; as well as NBA Hall of Fame member Vlade Divac and Kings legend Peja Stojaković.

The three-day program gathered 128 young basketball enthusiasts from Shenzhen for professional training sessions led by the Sacramento Kings coaching team, covering physical conditioning, skills development, and tactical training. Vlade Divac and Peja Stojaković also joined participants on site, sharing their experiences and inspiring young athletes through the spirit of perseverance and teamwork.

Beyond basketball, the program featured technology visits, university exchanges, and cultural activities, including visits to DJI, Shenzhen University, and Shenzhen Foreign Languages School, allowing participants to experience Shenzhen’s innovation ecosystem and cultural vitality.

Through the integration of sports, culture, and innovation, the event further strengthened youth connections between China and the United States. MEBO Group will continue leveraging international platforms to promote global youth exchange and contribute to greater cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.

 

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