Chief Executive John Lee and top officials hosted a dinner with China’s national men’s basketball team on Sunday at Government House.

China's national basketball team
Former professional player and basketball executive Yao Ming towers over Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee at Government House on February 26, 2023. Photo: GovHK.

It comes as Hong Kong is selected as the venue for the upcoming International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup home matches.

The contest begins on August 25 and will take place in China.

China's national basketball team
China’s national basketball team at Government House on February 26, 2023. Photo: GovHK.

Lee wished the team success in the finals and said the event showed that the city was able to host top-tier international sports events.

China's national basketball team
Former professional player and basketball executive Yao Ming towers over Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee at Government House on February 26, 2023. Photo: GovHK.

“For Hong Kong, the competition this time demonstrates three features and meanings. Firstly, under the advantage of One Country, Two Systems, Hong Kong can take part in the nation’s rapid development and contribute in different areas. Secondly, with the great support of the nation, top international events are being hosted in Hong Kong. Thirdly, top athletes showcasing their skills are beneficial to the development of sports in Hong Kong,” Lee said on Facebook on Sunday.

China's national basketball team
China’s national basketball team at Government House on February 26, 2023. Photo: GovHK.

Photos from the gathering showed former professional player and basketball executive Yao Ming towering over Lee. The 42-year-old is 2.29 metres tall.

China's national basketball team
Photo: GovHK.

Meanwhile, the 15th National Games will be held in Hong Kong in 2025.

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Tom is the editor-in-chief and founder of Hong Kong Free Press. He has a BA in Communications and New Media from Leeds University and an MA in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong. He has contributed to the BBC, Euronews, Al-Jazeera and others.