The first match of the 2023 VBA final series between the Saigon Heat and Nha Trang Dolphins far exceeded fan expectations.

Unexpected performance 

Leading up to the final series, the Saigon Heat and Nha Trang Dolphins fell on opposing ends of the spectrum.

The Ho Chi Minh City-based team had clinched the championship for the past three seasons, whereas this was the Nha Trang squad’s first finals appearance. 

However, within the opening minutes of the first final match, spectators were astounded to see the veteran team outperformed by the overall competence of the Dolphins. 

Fans cheer for the Saigon Heat during the 2023 VBA final match against the Nha Trang Dolphins. Photo: VBA

It was not until the latter half of the game that the Saigon Heat managed to stage a comeback, culminating in a 98-95 victory.

The Saigon Heat’s foreign player Kentrell Barkley commented after the match that, although their opponents put on an exceptional performance, his team’s shooting ability helped push them ahead.

Still, despite the victory, Barkley shared that he does not expect an easy road to the finish.

Nha Trang Dolphins’ Dominique Tham (white jersey) competes against Saigon Heat players during the 2023 VBA final match. Photo: VBA

Rare three-pointer

Dominique Tham, a standout for the Nha Trang Dolphins, is renowned for his aggressive play close to the hoop.

Although Tham rarely attempts long-range shots, the power forward left spectators in astonishment by nailing a three-pointer from the front corner in the closing moments of the first overtime session. 

Saigon Heat’s Vo Kim Ban competes during the 2023 VBA final match against the Nha Trang Dolphins. Photo: VBA

This remarkable shot not only disrupted the enthusiasm of Saigon Heat fans but also pushed the game into its first double-overtime of the season. 

Equally as shocking, in Tham’s 500 minutes of during the 2023 VBA season, this marked only his fifth three-point attempt.

Vo Kim Ban’s contribution

The Saigon Heat’s Vo Kim Ban also shocked fans throughout the game. 

The challenges faced by Saigon Heat in the first finals match once again provided an opportunity for the 1.86-meter-tall star to showcase his skill, successfully netting four three-pointers in the latter part of the game and helping push the Heat to victory.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!