The final match, held on the afternoon of 7/12, saw Thy play a pivotal role in her team's 37-29 victory against Vinschool Harmony. This win marked the school's third championship title in the tournament.

After the game, Thy expressed her pride, stating, "I am proud because the whole team has progressed together. I want to dedicate this victory to all the fans who came to cheer us on."

Vu Duong Bao Thy at the VnExpress Youth Basketball 2025 - Ziaja Cup final, on 7/12. *Photo: VYB*

Wearing jersey number 98, Thy played as a point guard/shooting guard. Her responsibilities included dribbling, distributing the ball, controlling the game's pace, and scoring. Despite lacking a physical advantage, Thy is recognized for her agility, aggressiveness, and strong rhythm control.

Thy began playing basketball 6 years ago "for fun", but soon found herself drawn to the sport's team spirit. She credits basketball with introducing her to wonderful friends, both on and off the court, fostering her growing attachment to the game.

Throughout her middle and high school years, Thy has been a prominent member of her school's basketball team. She and the Phan Dinh Phung High School team have secured championships in numerous student sports competitions, including the Phu Dong Sports Festival in Hai Phong in 2024 and the HCM–HN Youth Basketball Friendly Tournament 2025.

Leading up to the Ziaja Cup final, Phan Dinh Phung faced a challenging prospect, having lost to Vinschool Harmony in their previous encounter. Thy acknowledged the opposing team's consistent performance, noting they were not "easy opponents". Consequently, Thy and her teammates were mentally prepared and determined to defend their championship title in this rematch.

Thy's daily routine includes training with her team, often fitting in extra practice sessions before class, during lunch, and after school with team captain Dinh Linh. Beyond coach-led practices, she dedicates an additional 30-45 minutes to individual training. This extra time is spent honing her shooting skills, reviewing coach's instructions, and correcting past errors in preparation for the final.

At the start of the match, Thy acknowledged she struggled with ball distribution, attributing it to her less-than-optimal mental state. Phan Dinh Phung also found themselves trailing their opponents multiple times during the first quarter.

As the game progressed, Thy grew calmer and more confident, improving her play. Phan Dinh Phung seized the lead just before the first quarter concluded, then consistently maintained their advantage despite counterattacks from Vinschool Harmony.

For Thy, this victory held particular significance, marking the final match for her 2008 age group representing the school team.

Vu Duong Bao Thy during the VnExpress Youth Basketball 2025 - Ziaja Cup final, on 7/12. *Photo: VYB*

Coach Vu Quynh Thu highlighted Thy's calm and strong dribbling as her key strengths. In the final, these attributes were on full display, enabling Thy to score numerous points for her team. She also demonstrated improved situational awareness, leading to effective three-point shots.

Though not the captain, Thy plays a crucial morale-boosting role. She often comforts and encourages her teammates when the team struggles to execute the coach's strategic plans.

Off the court, Thy is a responsible class monitor and a notable drummer in her class's cultural activities. Ms. Hang, her 12D7 homeroom teacher, confirmed that Thy consistently maintains excellent academic performance and completes all assigned tasks. Her extensive competition experience has also ensured that tournament preparations do not negatively impact her studies.

Looking ahead, Thy plans to temporarily step away from basketball to prioritize her studies. She will prepare for the 2026 high school graduation exam and explore various academic majors.

"After that, I will return to this sport as a hobby, rather than pursuing it as a long-term career", Thy stated.

Khanh Linh