Game On: An Interview with Host Zena Edosomwan on Basketball’s Cultural Impact in Rural China
In Game On, a new series produced by Blue Chalk in partnership with USA Today and CICC, professional basketball player Zena Edosomwan heads to rural China to experience the electrifying “Village NBA” tournament, where basketball connects entire communities. In this interview, Zena chats with us about his journey — learning about the Miao people, facing production challenges, and discovering the power of sports to bring us all together.
What was it like returning to China for the production of Game On, especially given your background studying East Asian Studies and your previous connections with the culture? Did those experiences shape your perspective as a host?
It was a surreal experience returning to China after five-plus years, specifically in this capacity working on a whole production. Despite my passion and background in East Asian studies, I really couldn’t quite prepare for something of this magnitude. Previously, on my visits to China, I was in bustling cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. I had never really gotten to experience village life. I spent time in more rural China, learning about the Miao people and their culture. This was my first real, in-person lesson on the different ethnic groups and traditions. While I was familiar with the basics of China through these previous experiences, nothing prepared me for the intricacies and the richness of Miao culture. My view and appreciation of China and its vast culture were taken to new heights after spending intimate time with the Miao people.
As someone who has played basketball on courts around the world, what was the most surprising or memorable part of hosting Game On and being immersed in the ‘Village NBA’ tournament? How did it compare to your own experiences playing the game?
I was absolutely astounded by the incredible scale of the Village Basketball Association tournament, with over 20,000 people nightly from different villages across the province engaged in basketball activities. From youth teams to middle-aged adults and women’s teams, the dedication to basketball from sunrise to sunset was remarkable. The impressive performances, endless energy, and grandiose nature of the VBA truly stood out. The documentary will undoubtedly showcase this spectacle, and witnessing it firsthand was a truly unforgettable experience.
How did it feel to witness the unique way basketball is celebrated in rural China, and how do you think it reflects the connection between sports and culture?
Witnessing the immense passion and fanfare surrounding basketball in rural China was unprecedented. The deep connection between sports and culture was beautifully evident. The celebration of basketball in rural China reflects the importance of community, teamwork, and representing one’s village with pride. The dedication, intensity, and emotions displayed during the games showed a universal theme of striving for excellence for the ones we love and care for — a concept that resonates regardless of location or background.
Can you share a behind-the-scenes moment or challenge during production that stood out to you?
As a host, one of the standout challenges during production was adapting to unexpected circumstances. Every part was new and something I had never done before, so it was truly important that I try to embrace it all and come in with openness and the right energy to fully lean into the experience. Opening up to vulnerability and embracing the unknown was a fulfilling challenge that led to personal growth throughout the filming process. A special acknowledgment goes to our director, David Hamlin, and producer, Matthew Slutsky, whose guidance and support were invaluable in navigating this enriching journey.
What did you take away from your experience hosting Game On — whether it was something about the production process, the culture you were immersed in, or even something about yourself?
From this cultural immersion, I was deeply moved by the kindness and warmth of the Miao people. Their openness in sharing their culture, traditions, and values created a profound impact on me. This experience prompted personal reflection on how to incorporate such kindness and empathy into daily interactions, fostering a greater sense of unity and understanding across diverse backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, gaining a newfound appreciation for the dedicated individuals behind the scenes of production highlighted the collaborative effort and dedication required to bring a project of this magnitude to life. Every person involved, regardless of visibility, played a crucial role in making Game On a reality, and witnessing their passion was inspiring.
What do you hope people take away from Game On, especially about how basketball can bring people together and highlight our shared humanity?
I hope people see how Game On showcases the beauty, richness, and love within the Miao culture, alongside the fervor, competitiveness, and sense of community found in the Village Basketball Association. I also believe viewers will appreciate the parallels between sports and the human experience. The shared pursuit of excellence, resilience in facing challenges, and unity in celebrating victories and defeats transcend cultural boundaries. Ultimately, Game On emphasizes the unifying power of sports, fostering connections, friendships, and shared experiences that bridge differences and celebrate our shared humanity. Thank you to the viewers for your support; it means everything.
You can stream Part One and Part Two of Game On now on the USA Today YouTube channel. Follow host Zena Edosomwan on Instagram!
