Hanoi Buffaloes win big on the opening day of VBA 2026.

The opening ceremony of the 2026 VBA season and the inaugural match between the reigning champions Hanoi Buffaloes and runners-up Nha Trang Dolphins took place at the Xuan Dinh Gymnasium. After four convincing quarters, the "Capital City Buffaloes" secured a dominant victory over the Nha Trang Dolphins with a score of 116-92.

AJ Bramah possesses high speed and diverse scoring skills. (Photo: VBA)

In the first quarter, Hanoi Buffaloes moved the ball smoothly and defended tightly. Starting proactively, the home team accelerated with the "spark" of Lian Ramiro. The guard, who played a major role in helping the "Capital City Buffaloes" win the championship last year, shone at the three-point line, putting his team ahead. With the added support of experienced shooter Tam Dinh, the blue-jerseyed team got off to a strong start, leading 32-23.

In the second quarter, the defending champions' tight defensive coverage and diverse play continued to stifle the visiting team. With effective defense, the home team steadily increased their advantage thanks to the performance of foreign player AJ Bramah. The 1.98m tall forward's excellent shooting touch helped the "Capital Bulls" at one point extend their lead to 23 points. Dominating their opponents, coach Matt Van Pelt's team held the game 57-41.

In the third quarter, after the break, the Nha Trang Dolphins' offensive players were more effective. The combined efforts of Vo Huy Hoan and the Mongolian duo in attacking the paint resulted in numerous free throws. Capitalizing on opportunities from the free throw line and beyond, coach Todd Purves's team narrowed the gap to eight points, 74-82.

Mongolian player Azzaya Batkhuyag (in white jersey) seeks a way to drive to the basket area near the Hanoi Buffaloes. (Photo: VBA)

In the final quarter, in the opening minutes, Nguyen Huy Hoang and Dinh Tien Cong acted as the "spark," initiating a scoring spree for their team. Responding to their teammates' offensive momentum, AJ Bramah, with his versatile shooting skills, helped the "Capital City Buffaloes" re-establish their lead, extending it to over 20 points. Unable to counter the versatility and all-around performance of the reigning champions, the Nha Trang Dolphins ultimately suffered a 92-116 defeat.

AJ Bramah, the main scorer for Hanoi Buffaloes, was awarded Player of the Game with 40 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.

“I feel very excited to win on my first game in Vietnam. My teammates supported me wonderfully during the match. Our opponents were also a strong team with talented players. To win, we followed and did well what the coach instructed. My teammates and I want to continue bringing this positive energy to the Hanoi Buffaloes fans,” AJ Bramah shared.

Nguyen Huy Hoang helped Hanoi Buffaloes regain control of the game in the final quarter. (Photo: VBA)

In this game, Hanoi Buffaloes displayed a top-class performance. Despite it being the opening game, the home team showed impressive cohesion and coordination. Their fast-paced, coordinated, and flexible play allowed coach Matt Van Pelt's team to dominate all four quarters and outperform in successful shots (45 vs. 29), rebounds (59 vs. 36), assists (28 vs. 19), and steals (11 vs. 5). Nha Trang Dolphins rallied in the third quarter with 33 points. However, the efforts of the Nha Trang team were not enough to break the home team's dominance.

MINH PHU

Source: https://nhandan.vn/hanoi-buffaloes-thang-dam-ngay-khai-man-vba-2026-post963963.html