Basketball has always been more than just a game—it’s a way to bring my closest allies together. By pulling friends from different circles to hit the court, I’ve watched them connect over a shared love for the sport, forging new ties across diverse networks. It’s a rare joy to see these worlds collide so naturally.
Today, I want to spotlight two remarkable friends, Matthew and Anson, whom I met through the Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) society at La Salle College. Over a decade ago, we bonded during our school years, and that connection has only deepened. We’ve kept up regular meetups, especially on the court in recent times. Those OLF days left a lasting imprint—organizing inter-school camps, studying together at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, moving to nearby neighborhoods, and sharing countless meals and games with new faces. I’ve written before in this blog about how senior OLF members guided me toward university success, but Matthew and Anson, as my juniors, shared the journey in a different way. Together, we’ve built memories that anchor us, from late-night study sessions to catching up with old OLF crew.
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Matthew and I share a unique path: neither of us studied programming in university, yet we both carved out careers as developers. Our connection, rooted in La Salle College’s Our Lady of Fatima society and the “I’m Yours” organizer crew from our 2012 inter-school camp, has grown far beyond those early days. We catch up not just at OLF or “I’m Yours” gatherings but also on the basketball court, where we trade shots and sweat, and in deep dives over coding challenges, swapping insights on tech.
The wildest twist came after I moved out on my own. Barely a few months later, Matthew relocated too—and, by sheer chance, to an estate just a three-minute walk from mine. Now neighbors, we can spontaneously grab a coffee or chill nearby, a rare privilege with someone this close. Matthew’s grounded nature shines through; his steady, earnest approach to work and life earns my respect every time.
These shared moments—whether debugging code or shooting hoops—remind me how valuable it is to have a friend who’s both a teammate and a neighbor, keeping the connection tight through life’s shifts.
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Anson holds a unique place in my life, tied to me through an unexpected thread: he was my younger brother’s primary school classmate. My brother didn’t continue to La Salle College for secondary school—a choice that, honestly, carries a tinge of personal regret I might unpack another time. Yet, by a twist of fate, I met Anson through the Our Lady of Fatima (OLF) society at La Salle when he was just starting Form 1. From that moment, he became like a second younger brother to me, someone I’ve watched grow up over the years.
I’ll admit, I’ve always had a soft spot for him. Early on, my care for Anson might have stemmed from missing my own brother, but it quickly grew into something more. We shared countless experiences—organizing OLF events, studying together at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and hitting the basketball court whenever we could. Those moments forged a deep camaraderie, built on shared memories and mutual trust. While I may not have grand gestures to offer, I’m always ready to share opportunities or support with him without hesitation.
Anson’s more than a friend—he’s family, a buddy whose presence has enriched my journey through school, sports, and beyond.
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The game delivered an unforgettable highlight. I tossed a sharp pass to Anson as he cut in from the right baseline, and he soared for a perfect alley-oop, laying over a towering defender for a clean score. The court buzzed with energy—a true showcase of seamless teamwork.
Moments like these remind me why I cherish these games. It’s not just about the points but the synergy and trust built through every pass and play, especially with longtime friends like Anson who bring their A-game.
Anson’s preparing to relocate abroad soon, a move I quietly find tough to accept, though I’d never say it out loud. Still, his decision is made, and I wish him nothing but the best—a vibrant new chapter filled with fresh connections. When he returns to Hong Kong, the court will be waiting for another round.
For me, staying grounded means never forgetting those who’ve walked alongside you. It’s not just about tangible help—it’s about the steady presence of people who quietly cheer you on through every struggle. Matthew, Anson, and the broader OLF network have been that backbone, and I’m endlessly grateful for their support as I navigate my entrepreneurial path with SilverGuard AI and beyond.
