Gordon Hayward shows his skills during his maiden visit to Xiamen, in Fujian province, on Aug 7. [Photo/chinanews.com]

Gordon Hayward, the US professional basketball player who is a star in the Boston Celtics in the National Basketball Association, caused an exciting stir when he embarked on a maiden trip to Xiamen, in Fujian province, on Aug 7. 

The NBA All-Star, who obtained the honorary title in 2017, led an interactive training session with some 30 local children, guiding them on how to dribble, shoot and guard. He also wowed local fans with a special fruit soup treat. 

Though now enjoying widespread popularity, Hayward suffered a low point in his career on Oct 17, 2017 during a regular-season opening match of the Celtics against the Cleveland Cavaliers. On the day he was hit with a severe injury in his left ankle, when he landed awkwardly on the basketball court's hard wood surface, causing his leg to collapse under his weight. 

"I was once doubted (myself) and complained about fate playing such a trick on me, but my fans, family and strangers on the social media cheered me up and drove me forward," Hayward said. 

On Oct 16, 2018, Hayward played in his first game since the ankle injury. He recorded 10 points and five rebounds in 25 minutes in a 105–87 season-opening win over the Philadelphia 76ers. Since then, he has mostly been off the bench during the season, recovering from the injury. 

"I wish to keep progressing in the new season and finally take the championship with my teammates," Hayward added.