Twenty-four teams, comprising 16 boys' teams and 8 girls' teams, were selected by the organizing committee from 50 registered applications to compete in the regional round. Approximately 400 students, along with teachers, referees, athletes, and coaches, gathered early, even though the event was scheduled to commence at 8 a.m.

Young participants took the opportunity to socialize, discuss the tournament, and pose for photos before the opening ceremony. Many students affirmed that despite coinciding with end-of-year exams, the tournament did not impede their studies. On the contrary, playing basketball offered moments of relaxation, helping them feel more at ease for exam preparation.

Vu Kim An (number 24, Bui Thi Xuan High School girls' team) shared that her team was competing with a relaxed mindset, not burdened by the pressure of winning or losing. She explained that the tournament provided an opportunity for the school's grade 10 students to gain experience, while seasoned players like An, the only grade 12 member on the team, and the grade 11 students, offered support and played only when necessary. In preparation for the tournament, An's team had been practicing weekly every friday for the past month at the school court with their coach.

A vibrant cultural performance featuring dance moves and acrobatic lifts by students added to the excitement of the opening ceremony.

Delivering the opening speech, Ms. Bui Thi Thuy, Vice Head of the organizing committee, encouraged the athletes: "Play your best, enjoy every moment, and create a season that you will always be proud of when you look back on the beautiful experiences you have created."

Mr. Vu Van Trong, Vice President of the Viet Nam Basketball Federation and Head of the grassroots basketball committee, expressed his hope that the tournament would uncover potential young athletes for provincial, city, and sector teams, contributing to the development of youth basketball in the country.

The organizing committee presented flowers to thank representatives from the Viet Nam Basketball Federation and accompanying sponsors. From left: a representative of the organizing committee; Mr. Vu Van Trong, Vice President of the Viet Nam Basketball Federation and Head of the grassroots basketball committee; leaders of EUPC Group; leaders of Baniphar; and representatives of Actee and AKPro Basketball brands.

Representing the referee committee, Mr. Truong Cong Thuan swore an oath to officiate matches fairly, civilly, and in strict accordance with the tournament rules.

Nguyen Thi Thu Ngan (Tay Thanh High School), representing the athletes participating in the VnExpress youth basketball tournament 2026 – Ziaja cup in Ho Chi Minh City, swore an oath to strictly abide by the tournament regulations, respect the decisions of the organizing committee and referees, and compete with honesty and sportsmanship.

Kim Kim

Photo: Quynh Tran

The VnExpress youth basketball tournament - Ziaja cup is an annual event co-organized by VnExpress Newspaper and FPT Online Services Joint Stock Company, with sponsorship from Polish pharmaceutical and cosmetics brand Ziaja. Going beyond a typical sports competition, the event uniquely combines sports with school healthcare activities.