Zimbabwe Beats China in Basketball Friendship Match Celebrating 45 Years of Ties

Takudzwa Chitsiga

Zimpapers Sports Hub

Zimbabwe 81

China 51

ZIMBABWE beat China 81–51 in a basketball friendship match that marked 45 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The game, played at Riverdale Senior School in Harare, was more than a contest on the court. It became a celebration of cultural exchange and the strengthening of ties through sport.

The exhibition match featured select players from Harare basketball academies and a Chinese residents’ team. The stands were filled with colour and energy as the sides battled in a spirited contest that symbolised friendship as much as competition.

The event drew high profile guests, among them Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works Albert Tawanda Mavunga and Chinese ambassador Zhu Ding. Both officials praised sport as a bridge in bilateral relations.

“It is a joy to join you at this Basketball Friendship Match, celebrating 45 years of China-Zimbabwe diplomatic relations. Congratulations to all players on an exceptional game. My sincere appreciation goes to all those who have contributed to making this event a resounding success,” said Ambassador Ding.

He added: “The Chinese Embassy is honored to partner with Better Basketball Zimbabwe and the Chamber of Chinese Enterprises in supporting this Friendship Match as we celebrate 45 years of shared achievements and unbreakable bonds. Our fraternal friendship is not just about political solidarity, economic collaboration, but also about dynamic cultural, educational, sports exchanges. These people to people ties serve as a catalyst and a foundation of our great relationship.”

Deputy Minister Mavunga echoed the ambassador’s message. “It is an honour and privilege and I am happy to have attended such an occasion, and I look forward to more such events,” he said, adding that sport gave young people a healthy alternative to street life and strengthened ties between the two nations.

On the court, Zimbabwe dominated from start to finish. They surged ahead 24–16 in the opening quarter, stretched their lead to 40–35 at halftime, controlled the third 60–47, and closed out emphatically with an 81–51 win.

Better Basketball Zimbabwe director and tournament organiser Allen Mavunga said the success of the event would inspire more such exchanges. “We are happy and are looking forward to more tournaments of this nature across the country,” he said.

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