Xi’an Jiaotong University 62 – 39 University of Cambridge
Club Friendship Match | July 4, 2026

Chinese University Cruises Past Cambridge in International Friendly

In a spirited cross-continent exhibition, Xi’an Jiaotong University outclassed the University of Cambridge 62–39 on Saturday afternoon. The contest, played under the banner of “Club Friendship,” showcased the growing ties between Chinese and British student athletics. Despite the lopsided final score, both sides treated the occasion as a valuable learning experience ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.

Xi’an Jiaotong’s Size and Speed Prove Decisive

From the opening jump, Xi’an Jiaotong’s superior athleticism was on full display. The home side used a 18–7 first quarter to establish control, with their frontcourt dominating the paint against a smaller Cambridge lineup. The margin swelled to 35–18 by halftime, as the Chinese team shot 44 percent from the field while holding the visitors to just 28 percent.

Cambridge struggled to handle Xi’an Jiaotong’s full-court press and patient half-court offense. The Chinese squad recorded assists on 14 of their 25 made baskets, a testament to their fluid ball movement. Cambridge, on the other hand, committed 16 turnovers and managed only six assists as a team.

Second Half Maintains Friendly Tone

The third quarter followed a similar script, with Xi’an Jiaotong padding their lead to 50–30 entering the final period. Cambridge showed resilience in the fourth, holding their hosts to just 12 points, but the deficit proved insurmountable. The final margin of 23 points reflected the gap in experience and preparation, though Cambridge coach Sarah Mitchell praised her team’s effort afterward.

“We knew coming in that Xi’an Jiaotong would be a tough opponent,” Mitchell said. “They’ve been training year-round while we’re still building cohesion after exams. I’m proud of how our players competed, especially in the second half.”

Key Performers

• Zhang Wei (Xi’an Jiaotong): 16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists. The forward was a matchup nightmare, scoring efficiently inside and out.
• Chen Li (Xi’an Jiaotong): 12 points, 7 rebounds, 5 steals. His defensive pressure sparked numerous fast-break opportunities.
• Tom Harrison (Cambridge): 11 points and 4 rebounds. The guard was Cambridge’s most consistent scorer, hitting several tough jumpers.
• Oliver Davies (Cambridge): 8 points, 9 rebounds. Battled hard on the glass against bigger opponents.

Cultural Exchange Beyond the Score

The match was part of a broader exchange program between Xi’an Jiaotong University and the University of Cambridge’s athletic department. Both teams participated in joint training sessions earlier in the week and attended cultural activities, including a visit to the Terracotta Warriors museum. Organizers hailed the event as a success, with plans already in the works for a return fixture in Cambridge next year.

For Xi’an Jiaotong, the win extends their preseason unbeaten streak against international opponents. Cambridge, meanwhile, returns to the UK to prepare for the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) season, where they will look to build on the lessons learned from this trip.