Milun Student Guo Ziqi Selected for National U18 Basketball Team

Beijing, China – Guo Ziqi, an 18-year-old guard from Milun Second Middle School, has been named to the Chinese national U18 men’s basketball team, the Chinese Basketball Association announced recently. The selection marks a significant achievement for the young athlete and underscores the success of basketball development initiatives within the Milun district.

Guo, who stands 1.81 meters tall, is a key player for the Milun Second Middle School basketball team. He will join his teammates in preparing for the 2026 U18 Men’s Basketball Asia Cup. This inclusion adds another national honor to the growing legacy of basketball within Milun.

A Rising Star with a Strong Foundation

Guo Ziqi’s journey to the national team is a testament to years of dedicated training. He began his basketball journey at a young age, developing a solid fundamental skillset and a high basketball IQ. His performance has consistently impressed, leading his team to championships in traditional school leagues and club competitions. He was also recognized as the scoring leader at the National High School Basketball Tournament.

Beyond school competitions, Guo has represented Beijing in the U18 divisions of the National Games and the National Three-on-Three Basketball Championship, where his team secured a championship title in the Beijing qualifying round in 2023. His exceptional performance at the 2025 National U18 Basketball Training Camp, where he was named the best guard, further solidified his position as a promising talent. This latest selection for the national team is a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and dedication.

Milun Second Middle School: A Hub for Basketball Talent

Milun Second Middle School has long been recognized as a leading institution for basketball development in the region. The school’s commitment to a “physical education and teaching integration” philosophy, coupled with a professional and systematic training program, has consistently produced talented basketball players for national and provincial teams. The school’s approach emphasizes a holistic development of athletes, combining academic pursuits with rigorous athletic training.

For readers unfamiliar with the Chinese education system, many schools like Milun Second Middle School actively cultivate sports talent alongside traditional academics, creating specialized programs to support aspiring athletes. This model is becoming increasingly common as China invests in developing its national sports programs.

Milun District’s Strategic Investment in Basketball

Guo Ziqi’s success is also a reflection of the Milun district’s broader strategy to develop a dedicated basketball zone. In recent years, the district’s sports bureau and education commission have collaborated to improve basketball infrastructure, including school, community, and park facilities. This investment aims to provide a robust foundation for the sport’s growth.

The district has implemented a comprehensive talent development model encompassing “campus basketball + professional training + competition experience.” This approach focuses on identifying and nurturing young talent through a structured pathway. A multi-tiered local tournament system has been established to provide competitive opportunities, while also investing in the development of coaches and referees. Regular training camps and ladder programs are also in place to ensure a continuous pipeline of talent.

Looking Ahead

The Milun district is committed to continuing its investment in basketball development, building on the success of programs like the one at Milun Second Middle School. Plans are underway to further enhance the integration of sports and education, strengthen the foundational infrastructure, and cultivate more talented athletes for national competition.

“We wish Guo Ziqi all the best as he prepares with the national team,” a district spokesperson said. “We are confident that he will continue to improve his skills and represent Milun with pride on the international stage.”

Guo Ziqi’s next challenge will be the intensive training camp with the national U18 team, as they prepare for the 2026 U18 Men’s Basketball Asia Cup. Fans can follow updates on the Chinese Basketball Association’s official website for schedules and results. The Asia Cup is expected to be a crucial stepping stone for these young players as they aim to represent China on the world stage.

The success of Guo Ziqi and the development of basketball in Milun serve as an inspiring example of how strategic investment and a commitment to youth development can yield significant results. The district’s dedication to fostering a thriving basketball community promises to produce more talented athletes in the years to come.