On the evening of May 26, the first "Xiang C·BA" University Basketball League in Xiangtan, hosted by the Xiangtan Youth League Committee and the Municipal Bureau of Culture, Tourism, Radio, and Sports, successfully concluded at Xiangtan University Gymnasium. After 16 days of intense competition among 21 teams from 12 universities in Xiangtan, the Xiangtan Institute of Technology men's and women's basketball teams each secured third place in the "Endeavor" and "Youth" divisions, respectively. Players Ouyang Xuankun, Lei Jianjun, Luo Xi, and Huang Haotong were awarded "Outstanding Athlete" titles, and Xiangtan Institute of Technology received the "Sportsmanship Award."

**Men's Basketball**  

**The Road to Victory: Comeback Against the Odds**  

On the evening of May 25, in the third quarter of the Xiang C·BA third-place playoff, the men's basketball team from Xiangtan Institute of Technology made a thrilling comeback after trailing by 15 points, defeating the Hunan University of Science and Technology (Postgraduate) team 55-52, securing third place.

At the beginning of the match, Hunan University of Science and Technology (Postgraduate) team demonstrated their strong skills, excelling in both offense and defense. In response to the trailing situation, coach Wang Zhankang swiftly adjusted tactics, implementing a 2-3 zone defense strategy, successfully stifling the opponent’s offense.

In the fourth quarter, player No. 23, Lei Jianjun, hit a crucial three-pointer, cutting the deficit to just one point. The score continued to fluctuate as both teams battled fiercely. Lei Renjie and Xiao Junjie fought hard for rebounds, with Xiao Junjie quickly passing to Ouyang Xuankun, who launched a fast break but was fouled by the opponent, earning two free throws. Both shots were perfectly executed, allowing the team to take the lead.

With just 22 seconds left, the team strategically ran down the clock. However, a mistake by Xiao Junjie during a pass to Lei Renjie gave the opponent possession. Fortunately, the opposing team also made an error, missing their scoring opportunity.

In a critical moment, Ji Suiye made an easy layup, extending the lead to three points. With only 5 seconds left, the opponent's No. 4 quickly dribbled across half-court but was tightly double-teamed by Ji Suiye and Ouyang Xuankun. The ball was ultimately stolen, securing the win for Xiangtan Institute of Technology.

**Women's Basketball**  

**Rising to the Challenge: Blossoming in Youth**  

During the group stage, the women's team lost their first match against Hunan University of Science and Technology but remained undeterred, resolute in their determination to improve and defeat their opponents. On May 18, they faced a crucial "life-or-death" match against the Hunan University of Urban Construction team.

Throughout the match, the Urban Construction team’s two tall centers dominated the court, creating challenges for Xiangtan Institute of Technology on both offense and defense. Under the guidance of the coaching staff, the players continually sought breakthrough opportunities and utilized quick movements and flexible tactics to create numerous scoring chances. On defense, players like Liang Ziwen tightly marked their opponents, limiting their scoring.

The match was tense and fast-paced, with the lead changing hands multiple times. Despite injuries sustained during aggressive play, the team displayed a high level of teamwork, ultimately securing a 55-50 victory and advancing to the semifIn the third-place playoff, the women's team faced off against Xiangtan Medical and Health University in a thrilling match. Throughout the game, the team maintained a lead, though the opponents kept the score close by seizing every opportunity. Our players worked hard to maintain the lead, but as the game neared its end, the opponents began employing a "foul strategy," deliberately fouling our players to force them into free throws, hoping to gain possession when free throws were missed.In the final two minutes of the match, our free-throw shooters Peng Rongrong and Liu Shishi, showing exceptional composure, successfully sank their shots, preserving the team's precious victory.

After the game, the Dean of the School of Education, Li Yixiang, stated in an interview that the university places great emphasis on student athletics. The achievements of the athletes, who poured their youth into their performance, are truly commendable. The School of Education will take this tournament as an opportunity to continue building the basketball team, enriching campus activities, and fostering lifelong sports values and a healthy lifestyle among students. Li encouraged young students to actively participate in physical activities to strengthen their willpower and enhance their overall personal development.

**Tournament Results**  

**Endeavor Group (Men's Basketball)**  

Champion: Hunan University of Science and Technology (Undergraduate)  

Runner-up: Xiangtan University (Undergraduate)  

Third Place: Xiangtan Institute of Technology

**Youth Group (Women's Basketball)**  

Champion: Xiangtan University (Undergraduate)  

Runner-up: Hunan University of Science and Technology (Undergraduate)  

Third Place: Xiangtan Institute of Technology

Throughout this passionate and sweat-filled tournament, we witnessed countless spectacular moments. Every offense and defense was gripping, with the athletes representing passion and perseverance. Their love for basketball was vividly expressed through their efforts. They embodied the university's CFAP educational philosophy through their actions, igniting the flames of their dreams with enthusiasm. Let's look forward to the next exciting tournament together!