In the final match against Cau Giay high school (Hanoi) on 7/12, Tuong Minh scored 19 of Vinschool The Harmony's 41 points. This marked the second time Tuong Minh earned the most valuable player title at the VnExpress youth basketball - Ziaja Cup.
Known for his quickness and accurate shooting, Tran Luu Tuong Minh plays as a combo guard, demonstrating versatility across three positions: small forward, point guard, and shooting guard.
Recalling the final, Minh shared that the team's morale faltered at times, leading to a lack of coordination in the second and third quarters. By the fourth quarter, after a timeout and pep talk, the team regained its rhythm, transitioning to a more aggressive and decisive offense. Minh's successful three-point shots helped The Harmony take the lead.
"I feel I gave my best and showcased my full ability to score for the team. I have no regrets about this match", Tuong Minh shared.
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Tran Luu Tuong Minh. Photo: VYB |
Minh transferred to Vinschool The Harmony in 6th grade. Initially fond of swimming, he switched to basketball to connect with new friends and gradually developed a passion for the sport. In 7th grade, encouraged by his coach and peers, Minh began participating in friendly tournaments between schools and clubs.
"I really love basketball. I love the feeling of being cheered on, watching the ball swish through the net, and winning", Minh said. Each week, in addition to 4-5 team practices, Minh trains daily on his own to maintain his form. He is currently a member of the Hanoi Titans basketball club.
Over four years with the sport, Minh and his team have achieved success, including a top 6 finish at the national basketball championship and a bronze medal at the 3x3 VBA Hanoi tournament. However, he still regrets not having more opportunities to shine as desired at the national championship.
"It wasn't until the VnExpress - Ziaja Cup final against Cau Giay high school that I truly felt proud of how I performed", Minh stated.
Minh previously felt demotivated when comparing himself to other players. Seeing his peers achieve significant success made him feel insecure and disheartened. However, after numerous conversations with his parents and coach, he gradually learned to transform pressure into motivation, focusing on training and believing in his own progress.
To enhance his skills, Minh regularly reviews professional players' game videos, analyzing their tactics and shooting techniques, then compares them to his own play. He mentioned that he looks to Stephen Curry, one of the most famous point guards in the National Basketball Association, as an ideal role model for persistence and discipline.
Beyond basketball, Tuong Minh maintains good academic results in school. According to the student, the key lies in managing time intelligently and effectively.
"It's not about studying for many hours or having numerous practice sessions; what's important is to maximize focus during both studying and training", Minh remarked.
Therefore, during periods of intense competition, Minh does not increase his training schedule but rather intensifies each practice session. When tired, he reduces practice hours and shifts them to other days. Before each match, in addition to thorough warm-ups, Minh also practices breathing exercises to maintain composure.
Nguyen Hoang An, Minh's head coach at the Hanoi Titans basketball club, describes him as a strong scorer with high discipline and a team-first attitude.
"Minh rarely misses practice and always proactively communicates with coaches to improve his technique. He also has a strong ability to score near the basket and shoot in tight spaces, consistently contributing many points to the team", An said.
Regarding his long-term aspirations, Minh stated he does not intend to pursue professional basketball. He is currently preparing for the IELTS certification, plans to study abroad in the US, and will continue playing basketball as a hobby.
Hai Yen
