Basketball》Playing at Kaido is special! The former king is looking forward to receiving the championship gold cup from the president

Former professional basketball player Lin Jinbang (middle) participated in the Presidents Cup three-on-three basketball game. (Photo by reporter Chen Zhiqu)

[Reporter Lu Yangxuan/Taipei Report] The national finals and opening ceremony of the 2026 National Sports Event President's Cup 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament took place today on Ketagalan Avenue in front of the Presidential Palace. Former New Taipei Kings player Lin Jinbang, who has left the professional basketball stage, also signed up for the team with his friends this time. He laughed and said that playing in front of the Presidential Palace is quite a special experience, and he also looks forward to the opportunity to receive the championship trophy from President Lai Ching-te.

The 41-year-old defenseman has played for SBL Puyuan Construction, PLG Navigator and TPBL New Taipei Kings in his career. He has accumulated 7 championships in 3 leagues during his career. His contract with the Kings expired at the end of August this year and he left the team. Today, he appeared at the press conference of the Presidents Cup 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament National Finals. He revealed that he was invited by a friend to participate this time. Even after leaving the professional arena, he continued to maintain his condition. "I play about two to three times a week. I feel very happy when I play."

Lin Jinbang, who is experienced in the battlefield, also said that it feels really special to compete in front of the Presidential Palace. "To be honest, I don't usually show up here. At most, I will just pass by. If I stay too long, I may be kicked away." Regarding whether he wants to compete for the championship, Lin Jinbang also said, "The championship must be the goal. After all, you want to win when you play, and I think last year’s championship was awarded by the president, which feels very special. Of course, the principle is to avoid injury.” Lin Jinbang said that after leaving the professional arena, he devoted himself to the sport from different angles and methods, “Maybe it became a hobby.”