The Emotional Journey of BUV Lions Basketball Teams at NUC 2025

Dedication, teamwork, and refusal to give up defined the journey of the BUV Lions at the National University Championship (NUC) 2025. From late-evening training sessions after classes to high-intensity moments on court, both the men’s and women’s teams delivered a season filled with determination, resilience, and pride in representing BUV.

Commitment in training, confidence in competition

The road to NUC 2025 did not begin on the court, but during the evening practices where team members balanced their academic schedules with their passion for basketball.

Starting with just one training session per week, the BUV Lions team gradually increased their intensity to 4–5 sessions weekly as the tournament approached. Training often began after 7 PM, with players running drills, refining tactics, and supporting one another. Some travelled 20–30 km each day just to practice with the team. Beyond training, they also took the initiative to seek sponsorship, connect with coaches, and maintain team operations through sustained commitment.

A remarkable late-game comeback fuelled by spirit

Two weeks before the tournament, women’s team captain Hạnh Tâm suffered a ligament injury. Despite only being able to play at around 60% of her full strength, she chose to step onto the court and lead her team.

“I just wanted to give everything I had for the team. Even just being able to run and play on the court made me happy,” said Hanh Tam. 

This determination ignited the team’s fighting spirit. In the quarter-final match, BUV trailed by over 25 points with only three minutes left. The coach quickly gathered the team and made the bold decision to shift to a full-court trap defence.

This strategy required players to press tightly on the ball handler, cut off passing lanes, and apply immense pressure on the opponent. With such an intense, fast-paced approach, a single successful trap could lead to a steal and an instant counterattack.

The bold switch completely changed the game’s momentum. The BUV girls repeatedly stole the ball, launched fast breaks, and landed precise shots, gradually closing the gap. It was a strategy they had only practised the day before, yet they executed it flawlessly in those final three minutes, scoring 20 straight points and pulling off a legendary comeback against a seasoned opponent. 

Their strong tactical structure throughout the season — each player mastering one or two key positions also played a crucial role in turning the tide. The team’s ability to adapt quickly, paired with accurate shooting and disciplined spacing, made their comeback even more impressive.

Decisive moments from the men’s team

While the women’s team created a comeback miracle, the BUV men’s team also had an unforgettable moment in this year’s NUC season. In the Northern regional qualifiers, with only 45 seconds left and the team trailing by three points, captain Nguyen Manh Hung was trusted to take two free throws. Under pressure from hundreds of spectators, he calmly scored both free throws to level the game.

“For three years in a row, I’ve been the one taking the final free throws. The first year, I missed both. The next, I missed one. But this year, both went in. That feeling, it’s real growth,” Manh Hung shared. 

Although the match ended with some regret, this moment reflected the composure and maturity that the team had built through years of training.

The Lionheart spirit beyond the scoreboard

Behind every shot and defensive play were hours of preparation, moments of pain, and deep trust among teammates. Both teams not only aimed for competitive results but also contributed to a positive sporting spirit within the BUV community.

“Through sports, especially basketball, which requires solidarity, discipline, and resilience, we hope students learn to push beyond their limits, support their peers, and spread positive energy to the community,” shared Ms. Tạ Hà Lan, Head of Student Engagement.

While NUC 2025 has concluded, the Lionheart spirit — resilience, unity, and determination — continues to inspire. The BUV Lions are now preparing for the next national student season, aiming not only for higher achievements but also for continued personal and collective development.