Standing at 1,75m, The Binh is central to the team's strategy, serving as the primary scorer while his teammates execute the tactical plan.

The Binh at the VnExpress Youth Basketball - Ziaja Cup 2025. *Photo: VYB*.

Binh discovered basketball in grade 3, observing practices near his home. Initially, he viewed it as a fitness activity, practicing one to two times a week. However, his interest grew with each game.

In grade 7, Binh was selected for the Jr.NBA tournament in Ho Chi Minh City and joined the ASA Hanoi basketball club, starting high-intensity training. This provided him opportunities to gain experience and compete in numerous inter-school and team tournaments.

He has competed in major tournaments such as VSBL and the VBA 3x3 exe national U16 tournament, earning gold medals in both.

Binh vividly recalls a tough loss over a year ago at the 10th Phu Dong Sports Festival. During the quarter-final against Vinschool Times City, his team played well, maintaining a balanced game. However, a momentary lapse in composure led him to commit two technical fouls, forcing him off the court.

"If only I had been calmer then, things might have been different," Binh reflected. "Since then, I always remind myself to control my actions. I've also become much less hot-headed."

For the VnExpress Youth Basketball - Ziaja Cup 2025, Binh intensified his training to five sessions weekly. This regimen included full team practices, individual sessions, and one-on-one coaching, focusing on enhancing his physical fitness, individual technique, and tactical coordination.

His consistent performance earned him the MVP (most valuable player) title in both the quarter-final and semi-final matches.

In last weekend's semi-final, Vinschool The Harmony played Nguyen Tat Thanh High School. Early in the first quarter, with only 4 seconds left on the shot clock, The Binh quickly sank a long-range shot, scoring 3 points and leveling the score at 3-3.

Despite a slow start, the team trailed until the fourth quarter. After a crucial regrouping, Binh and his teammates turned the game around, securing a 47-40 victory and their spot in the final.

"Everyone was worried, but we focused on supporting each other, which made our plays progressively sharper," Binh recounted.

The Binh competing at the VnExpress Youth Basketball - Ziaja Cup 2025. *Photo: VYB*.

Hoang Tung, The Binh's homeroom teacher, describes his student as energetic, sociable, naturally talented, and passionate about basketball.

Nguyen Tien Thanh, head coach of the Vinschool The Harmony high school team, describes Binh as a player with strong character, determined in training, and consistent performance.

"Binh has a positive attitude, always knows how to encourage his teammates, and believes in his own abilities," Thanh said. "Even though his home is quite far, Binh consistently attends all practices and arrives on time."

For The Binh, basketball is more than a sport; it helps him develop skills and de-stress after school. Through basketball, he has found like-minded friends, experienced the thrill of victory in competition, and become more agile in handling real-life situations.

"Pursuing basketball is a long journey, demanding high-intensity training," Binh stated. "The most important thing is genuine persistence and determination."

Binh stated he does not plan to pursue professional basketball. He intends to study abroad after high school, applying his acquired knowledge and skills to a career in hotel and restaurant management.

Huyen Trang