Challenges not a setback for squad, says Zhen Yang

Fab four: (From left) Chang Zi Fueng, Ting Chun Hong and Ooi Xian Fu lift captain Chong Zhen Yang.

PETALING JAYA: Setbacks can be disheartening, but they can also serve as powerful motivators.

This mindset is evident among the national men’s 3x3 basketball squad as they prepare for their debut appearance at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games on July 25.

Captain Chong Zhen Yang is determined to seek redemption against the Australian team, who defeated the national squad at the Asia Cup in April.

“They (Australia) are our main worry as they are physically dominant.

“But I think we have it in us to beat them if we face them again,” said Zhen Yang following a training session in Subang Jaya yesterday.

Unfortunately, the 23-year-old’s dreams of revenge have to be put on hold as Australia have been placed in pool A while Malaysia are in Pool B.

“Though not in our pool, there’s a high chance we will face Australia in the knockout rounds.”

Up against Zhen Yang and teammates Chang Zi Fueng, Ooi Xian Fu, and Ting Chun Hong in pool B are Singapore, England, Kenya, Fiji, and Jamaica.

The team are confident about getting through their pool as they have been training together since their bronze medal at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.

“We understand each other better now. Our speed will be our biggest advantage in the matches.”

Their strong bond had catapulted them to Asian No. 10 and successful qualification for this year’s Games.

The captain challenged his team to return from Scotland with silverware.

“Since it’s our debut, we have nothing to lose. Making the semi-finals and bringing back a medal is the aim.”

The team’s campaign at the Games will start against Fiji, followed by matches against Kenya and Singapore on the same day.