The 2026 Guangdong City Basketball League (YueBA) has tipped off with a message of inclusivity, as Foshan's squad features the competition's only hearing-impaired player.
Liang Jianheng, 27, earned his place on the team after rising through China's deaf basketball system, where he helped Guangdong secure a national championship and a runner-up finish at the National Games for Persons with Disabilities.
His journey into the sport began after a childhood illness caused lasting hearing loss, leaving him isolated for a time. Basketball, introduced by close friends, became his way back, offering a space where rhythm, movement, and instinct replaced the need for sound.
In 2023, Liang joined the Guangdong deaf basketball team as a point guard, learning to communicate through sign language and developing into a reliable playmaker. His performances there opened the door to YueBA, a higher-level mixed competition dominated by able-bodied players.
Now training with Foshan, Liang is adapting again, wearing a hearing aid, reading lips, and relying on visual cues to follow instructions and integrate into the team's system. Coaches and teammates have treated him no differently, focusing on his ability rather than his condition.
Liang says he does not want labels to define him, only performance. His goal is simple: to keep improving and compete at a higher level.
He did not feature in Foshan's opening win over Jiangmen on March 22, but could make his debut when the team hosts Zhaoqing in the second round on March 28.
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing, Liu Ming, Bai Hua
Script: Zeng Xiangxing
Cameraman: Liao Mingcan
Video: Zeng Xiangxing
Poster: Zeng Xiangxing
