Zijie Lu on Phygital Basketball: "It’s addictive!"
Zijie Lu has played basketball at the highest level in several formats. From 5-on-5 competition in China's CBA league to 3×3 tournaments across the Greater Bay Area, the Chinese player has built a career across different versions of the sport. Now, he is bringing that experience to Phygital Basketball.
A former player for the Liaoning Leopards, one of China's leading clubs, Lu now plays for the Macau Black Bears in the East Asia Super League. Alongside his professional career, he has continued to compete in 3×3 while exploring the growing world of hybrid sports.
In 2026, that journey took him to both Phygital Contenders and the Games of the Future (GOTF) in Astana. Playing for Valencia Basket, he experienced the challenge of playing 2v2 digital basketball alongside physical competition. For Lu, who already enjoys gaming, it was a chance to combine two of his biggest passions.
We caught up with him to discuss his move into Phygital Basketball, the atmosphere in Astana, and why he hopes to compete again.
What attracted you to phygital and made you want to take on this new challenge?
The mix of physical sport and esports really appealed to me. As a professional basketball player and a gaming fan, it combines the two things I enjoy most.
What did you expect when you first entered the phygital environment, and how was it different from traditional basketball?
It offers a completely new tournament experience. You move between 2v2 gaming and on-court basketball, which is very different from the 3×3 and 5-on-5 formats I know. You have to switch your focus constantly between the digital and physical stages. It is exciting and addictive.
What do you think phygital brings to the sport that is genuinely different?
It connects different worlds. The format brings together traditional sports and esports while also creating connections between athletes from different countries and cultures.
What was your experience competing at Phygital Contenders and at the Games of the Future 2026 in Astana, both on and off the court?
The whole experience was amazing. The LED-lit court looked incredible, and having esports matches and basketball games share the same stage created a unique atmosphere. It changed the way I think about what a sports event can be.
When you step onto the physical court in a phygital match, how does the game compare with the basketball you are used to playing professionally?
The pace is similar to 3×3 basketball, but the 2v2 format creates more space and quicker possessions. That puts a lot of pressure on your fitness and endurance. Even so, I really enjoy the intensity of the game at both ends of the court.
The digital stage needs a completely different skill set – how was that for you?
Because I already enjoy gaming, the digital side was not difficult for me. In fact, it made the experience even more fun. It was great to have the chance to show my gaming skills at a major event. Having said that, it definitely requires a different way of thinking. The link between the digital game and the action on the court creates new tactical challenges. Learning those systems and finding new strategies was one of my favorite parts of the experience.
How would you describe the level of competition in Phygital Basketball?
Very high. The tournament brings together talented players from around the world, including many strong 3×3 and 5-on-5 professionals. Testing myself against them was a great experience.
What would you say to other professional athletes who are curious about phygital?
Don’t hesitate. Give it a try. It’s a completely different experience, and anyone who loves basketball and competition will enjoy it.
Having now experienced phygital at the Games of the Future, what would you like to explore next in your own phygital journey?
It was a brilliant and enjoyable tournament. If I get the chance to compete again next year, I will return without hesitation.
