On the evening of December 17^th, the final match of the men's basketball in the 2023 "Unicom Cup" Freshman Basketball League at Xiamen University concluded successfully at the Mingpei Gymnasium on the Siming Campus. Since the tournament began on November 11^th, International College(IC) men's basketball team has overcome various challenges, playing a total of 5 games in the group stage, quarterfinals, and semifinals. They successfully advanced to the finals and ultimately secured the championship by defeating School of architecture and civil engineering，Xiamen University with a score of 64:51. Zhang Hao, player NO.6 was awarded the MVP (Most Valuable Player) of this final. This marks the third championship for IC men's basketball team in the overall university league since 2018. They previously won the Xiamen University "Super Cup" Undergraduate Men's Basketball League in 2018 and 2022, and the Freshman Basketball League Championship in 2023.

Finals

At the beginning of the first quarter, IC Men's Basketball Team showed excellent performance, taking the lead in scoring. Subsequently, our team demonstrated seamless cooperation, overwhelming momentum, and a dominant lead with a score of 21:6, setting the tone for winning the game. In the second quarter, relying on the height of our inside players and accurate shooting from the outside, we actively contested for offensive rebounds and continuously scored through ball penetration. At halftime, our team led by a significant margin with a score of 36:28.

As the second half began, facing the opponent's tight defense and a temporary offensive stalemate, our lead was narrowed to just two points. The coach promptly called a timeout, making timely tactical adjustments. Following the coach's targeted deployment, we strengthened both offense and defense, utilizing cutting attacks, precise passing, and open shots to widen the gap to 9 points. In the final quarter, with continuous strong attacks, precise shooting, and solid defense from our players, we further expanded the lead.

The game progressed with the players' persistent efforts and cohesive teamwork, testing their endurance, skills, and tactics. Throughout the entire match, the players remained unwavering, and in the end, we defeated School of architecture and civil engineering，Xiamen University with a significant score of 64:51, clinching the championship!

On the court, efforts and sweat collide; off the court, cheers and shouts intertwine. The basketball league received high attention from the college leadership, Tao Tao, Dean of IC and Ma Xianghua, Deputy Chair of IC were present to follow the progress of the game, providing strong support and encouragement to the players. "IC, go for it!" - Battling for honor, IC student cheering squad engaged in a spirited volume competition, with loud cheers and drumbeats converging into a powerful force of spirit, inspiring the players to give their all in the competition.

Post-match summary 

Zhang Hao, the MVP, expressed, "All the honors come from the team's effort and dedication! It's fortunate to win the championship! The MVP belongs to every member of our team; everyone did their best throughout the entire series. The most deserving thanks go to our coach, Sun Peiyang, who was serious and responsible, leading us through challenges and ultimately defending the championship. I also want to thank the teachers and fellow students in IC for their strong support. The shouts during the final were the driving force behind our victory. Moving forward, let's continue to strive, the championship belongs to IC! Finally, I wish my dear teammates and me plenty of goals and high fives!"

Sun Peiyang, IC Men's Basketball coach stated, "The attainment of the championship is a manifestation of the spirit of each player not giving up. The players came together, inspired each other, and finally crossed mountains and stood at the peak, deserving all the cheers and applause! At the same time, I would like to thank the leaders and teachers for their care and support. We lived up to expectations, and the power of the team overcame everything."

You Qi, IC Men's Basketball team captain expressed, "The championship honor belongs to every player! We all fought for honor, both on and off the court. Born in prosperous times, we should live up to the prosperity; in the prime of youth, we should not disappoint our youth. Teammates paved the road to dreams with love and nurtured the hard-earned fruits with sweat. At the same time, on behalf of all teammates, I want to express gratitude to the college for providing strong support."

The entire match was splendid and exciting, with the members of IC Men's Basketball team showing unity, cooperation, and dedication. They demonstrated the outstanding basketball skills of IC students, fully embodying the active and enterprising sports spirit of International College. This basketball league also facilitated communication between our college and other colleges, fostering friendships on the competitive arena.

Sporting jerseys, a group of teammates, passionate spirits, and an unstoppable determination. Congratulations to our college basketball team for clinching the championship! “Strong physique, building new achievements!”May everyone continue their love for basketball and remain as dream-chasing youth radiating with brilliance！