At the VnExpress Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 - Ziaja Cup (VYB), Vinschool Central Park has maintained an undefeated record across four matches and is set to face THPT Nguyen Thuong Hien in the girls' final on the morning of 23/5. Phuong Chi is the central player in the team's strategy.

In the semifinal match against THPT Bui Thi Xuan on 17/5, she contributed 24 of Vinschool Central Park's 49 points. She also provided numerous assists, enabling her teammates to score successfully, earning her the MVP (Most Valuable Player) title for the game.

Phuong Chi (number 8) dribbles the ball during the girls' semifinal match at the VnExpress Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 - Ziaja Cup. Photo: VYB

Luu Hai Trung, the physical education teacher and coach of the Vinschool Central Park girls' basketball team, describes Chi as an indispensable part of the squad. "She is ready to lead in crucial moments, but also wholeheartedly supports her teammates. Chi is both an outstanding individual and someone who can motivate the entire team," he commented.

Phuong Chi began playing basketball in grade 5, initially viewing it as a form of entertainment and a way to socialize with friends at school. One year later, Chi started additional training at the Warhorse basketball club in An Khanh ward, where she continues to practice. As she pursued basketball, Chi developed a desire to achieve specific goals and compete in major arenas, such as national championships.

Previously, Chi trained four to five sessions per week, with each session lasting two hours. This year, as a grade 11 student, she reduced her training to three sessions to dedicate more time to her academic studies. In preparation for the VYB tournament, Chi and her Vinschool Central Park teammates gather every Tuesday for tactical practice and team cohesion.

With a slender physique, Chi plays as a shooting guard. Her role involves scoring from long range or quickly penetrating the opponent's key area to score when opportunities arise.

The THPT Vinschool Central Park girls' team receives tactical instructions from coach Luu Hai Trung during a break in the semifinal match of the VnExpress Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 - Ziaja Cup. Photo: VYB

According to Chi, the discipline of basketball helps her balance academics and organize her life more simply. "Before, I just played for fun, but my basketball coach instilled discipline in me, as well as the importance of setting goals when playing. From that, I became more aware of my goals in life," Chi shared.

Over six years of playing basketball, Chi has faced many challenges. "There were many matches where I lost bitterly, which was discouraging. However, thinking about my teammates, the pride of my parents, and myself, I tried even harder and resolved not to give up," Chi recounted.

Last year, Chi was called up to the U16 Vietnam national team to participate in the U16 FIBA Southeast Asia tournament held in Hanoi. That tournament taught her a hard-earned lesson. "With 50 seconds left, we were leading but let the opponent turn the game around," Chi recalled, her voice still carrying a hint of regret.

This experience made her realize the need for greater composure in decisive moments. Since then, "composure" has become a word Chi reminds herself of every time she steps onto the court or faces important tasks.

Phuong Chi during Media Day filming before the tournament. Photo: VYB

Chi stated that while her parents support her playing basketball, they require her to prioritize academics. She strives to study thoroughly, understand lessons, and review material at school. At home, she dedicates one to two extra hours to review before bed.

Closer to exam days, Chi may wake up earlier than usual to study more, ensuring she completes at least two practice papers for her three main subjects daily. Additionally, Chi still manages to find time for piano lessons.

Although she does not aspire to pursue professional basketball, Chi believes the sport is like a teacher. "Basketball has instilled discipline, communication skills, and most importantly, a never-give-up attitude in me," she shared. She hopes these qualities will help her pursue a career in media in the future.

Ahead for Chi and her teammates is the championship match against a strong opponent, THPT Nguyen Thuong Hien. While the outcome is uncertain, Chi affirmed that she and the entire team will strive their utmost for victory.

The girls' final of the VnExpress Youth Basketball Tournament 2026 - Ziaja Cup is scheduled for 8h on 23/5. Information regarding the matches and results will be updated on the official website by the organizers.

The tournament is organized by VnExpress Newspaper and FPT Online Joint Stock Company, with professional oversight from the Vietnam Basketball Federation. It is also part of the national project "Developing School Basketball by 2030."

Kim Kim