Home » Sport » “En BA” ignited Enshi to become a “sports + cultural tourism + industry” integrated development phenomenon-level IP–Hubei Civilization Network

“En BA” ignited Enshi to become a “sports + cultural tourism + industry” integrated development phenomenon-level IP–Hubei Civilization Network

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

‘En BA’ Basketball Tournament Ignites Economic and Community Spirit in Enshi, China

ENSHI, CHINA – October 22, 2024 – A grassroots basketball tournament in the remote Enshi Prefecture of Hubei Province, China, is proving to be far more than just a game. The “En BA,” a locally-organized competition playfully echoing the NBA, has sparked a remarkable economic and social transformation, attracting national attention and driving a surge in tourism and local business. This is breaking news that demonstrates the power of sport to revitalize communities and build a thriving economy.

From Township Rivalries to a Multi-Million Yuan Industry

The recent championship win by the Rongmei Town team of Hefeng County, defeating the Jiaoyuan team of Xuanen County 90:84, capped off another successful season of “En BA.” But the scoreline only tells a fraction of the story. This three-year-old tournament, built around the theme of strengthening national unity and the Chinese dream, has blossomed into a phenomenon, topping the charts on the “Wo’ao Basketball” APP and becoming a powerful “sports + culture + tourism + industry” integrated development IP.

The tournament’s “zero-threshold” policy – open to anyone aged 18-60 with local residency – has been key to its success. Players range from tea farmers and factory workers to hospital staff and even township cadres, all united by their love of the game. Qin Chaoyang, a 35-year-old farmer and the oldest player on the Xianfeng White Tea Team, exemplifies this dedication, practicing his shooting while tending to his crops. This isn’t just about basketball; it’s about pride, community, and a shared passion.

The ‘Village BA’ Effect: A National Trend

The success of “En BA” builds on the momentum of the national “Village BA” movement, which has captured the imagination of China. The Xianfeng White Tea Team’s recent success in the national “Village BA” finals, and the enthusiastic homecoming they received, underscores the deep connection between these tournaments and local communities. This grassroots enthusiasm is translating into tangible economic benefits.

Economic Boom: Beyond the Court

The economic impact of “En BA” is substantial. Hubei Zhunzhe Sports Workshop reports sales of over 5,000 exclusive basketballs and more than 80,000 customized uniforms, generating over 10 million yuan in revenue. Local businesses, like Huashun Beverage Industry’s “Hedian Mountain Spring,” are leveraging the tournament’s visibility to expand their market reach. Hundreds of companies, including Bafeng Pharmaceutical and Runbang Tea Industry, have gained brand exposure through event sponsorship.

But the benefits extend beyond direct sales. Yao Jing, founder of Xingyao Sports, returned to Enshi to start a business fueled by his love for basketball, growing his company from three to over thirty employees. The tournament has even attracted investment and encouraged entrepreneurs to return to their hometown, with 28 Enshi nationals starting businesses and six foreign companies expressing investment interest.

Tourism Surge and a Shift to a ‘Whole Industry Chain Economy’

Enshi Prefecture has seen a dramatic increase in tourism, with over 100 million visitors from January to September, generating 83.894 billion yuan in comprehensive tourism revenue – a year-on-year increase of 13.69% and 24.56% respectively. The prefecture simultaneously hosted events like the National “Village BA” Central Division Finals, a road cycling open, a half marathon, and an international travel agents conference, further boosting the local economy. Local specialties, like selenium-rich potatoes and Tujia brocade, are now being sold nationwide.

As Lu Teng, a reporter with Hubei Daily, notes, “En BA” is driving Enshi’s transformation from a “ticket economy” reliant on individual attractions to a “whole industry chain economy” encompassing sports, tourism, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. The tournament isn’t just a sporting event; it’s a catalyst for sustainable economic development.

The “En BA” story is a powerful example of how grassroots sports initiatives can revitalize communities, foster economic growth, and strengthen national identity. It’s a testament to the enduring power of basketball to bring people together and create opportunities, and a model for other regions looking to leverage the power of sport for positive change. Stay tuned to Archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and other innovative approaches to community development.

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