Making Dreams Come True Isn’t the End — Staying True to the Start Takes You Further｜Interview with Chunghwa Telecom Women's Basketball Captain Pan Tzu-Yin

With her youthful energy and ever-present smile, Pan Tzu-Yin—known affectionately by fans as “Ah-Tzu”—radiates an approachable charm that’s made her a fan favorite. As of 2022, she has served nearly two years as captain of the Chunghwa Telecom Women’s Basketball Team. Her leadership often shines brightest in high-pressure moments, like in the second game of the 2021 WSBL Season 16, when Pan dropped five clutch points in the final seconds to fend off a rally by Taipower. She finished that game with an impressive stat line: 20 points, 11 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 assists, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Pan on the field (Source: Pan's Facebook)

When asked how her mindset has changed since becoming captain, Pan reflected, “I’ve learned to think more and pay closer attention to everyone’s personality on the team.” The team operates within a hierarchical culture, typical of Taiwanese sports, where respect and seniority are deeply ingrained. Back in 2019, when she was vice captain, the team had already hoped she would step into the captain’s role. But feeling she was still part of the “middle generation” with many seniors above her, she initially declined, uncertain if she was ready to lead. It wasn’t until a second invitation that she accepted the challenge.

The role of captain extends far beyond game day. Pan explains that it's crucial to help younger teammates adjust to the team without making them feel pressured by seniority, while also navigating how best to communicate with senior teammates. “Figuring out how to speak with both juniors and seniors—honestly, that’s harder than playing basketball,” she says with a laugh. “I’m still learning every day.”
In the beginning, she struggled with the pressure of scrutiny that came with leadership, but time taught her how to adapt. She’s learned to observe her teammates’ personalities and tailor her communication to suit each one.

“I just try to do the right thing, something most people can accept, and that I believe in. That’s enough.”

Pan and her teammates at the game (Photo credit: Pan's Facebook)

In 2021, Pan returned to her roots at Chung-Wei Junior High School alongside Chunghwa Telecom teammates to share her journey.It was a meaningful visit for her, as junior high was the turning point where her basketball path began. Playing on a Division 2 team at the time, she caught the attention of Chunghwa Telecom scouts during a game against Hai-Shan Junior High School. But choosing basketball meant facing immediate opposition—her mother strongly disapproved. Their disagreement was so deep that they didn’t speak for three months.

Looking back, Pan recalls the moment her mother finally relented: “She asked me, ‘Are you sure about this? I just hope you don’t quit after a few months.’ I told her, ‘I want to play.’” Her mother’s concern was never about control—it was the worry that her daughter was choosing a hard road. Time proved Pan’s resolve wasn’t a fleeting teenage rebellion but a commitment she’s upheld ever since.

In 2021, Pan returned to her roots at Chung-Wei Junior High School alongside Chunghwa Telecom teammates to share her journey.

At 22, Pan made history as the youngest Taiwanese player to join China’s WCBA, suiting up for the Shanxi team. The transition was jarring, moving away from home and facing the reality of a much more physical game. “Taiwan’s style isn’t as fixed. In China, you’re expected to stick to your role and focus on execution. Plus, the refs allow a lot more contact,” she said. Still, she has no regrets. “I’ve always chosen the tougher path,” Pan admits, moving from Division 2 to pro, through UBA and WSBL, then onto WCBA, and finally stepping into the role of captain. Each leap has been a new challenge she was ready to take on.

Pan Tzu Yin on the court (Source: Chunghua Telecom Women's Basketball Team Facebook)

In both sports and life, passion and talent might start the fire, but only continuous learning keeps it alive. Pan recalls something a coach once told her: “Learn by imitation.” To this day, she watches men’s basketball games to study how other point guards handle situations similar to hers. She also takes every chance to learn from her more experienced teammates through one-on-one matchups.

Pan on the field (Source: Pan's Facebook)

Has Pan ever felt burnout or wanted to give up? Pan laughs, “Every day!” Especially during intense pre-season training or when faced with technical roadblocks. The physical and mental stress can be overwhelming. But the key, she says, is feeling a sense of reward. Her once-skeptical family has become her strongest support system. “Now, my family discusses my game performance and even my facial expressions on court,” she shares.

“That, and the support from fans. It all gives me a deep sense of reward. I want to give something positive back to them.”

Pan interacts with fans (Source: Pan's Facebook)

The deeper you commit, the richer the reward. A truth that only those who stick it out come to understand.

Pan and her team regularly visit rural schools to promote basketball. Once a student fighting for her right to play, she’s now a mentor sharing her journey with the next generation. To young athletes dreaming of going pro, Pan has both encouragement and a dose of realism: “I’m glad they’re chasing what they love. But I also want them to know it won’t be easy. Choosing your passion doesn’t mean the path is smooth.” She recalls the challenges of moving up from Division 2 to Division 1 and the steep learning curve that followed. “But that’s exactly why I cherish everything I have now,” she says sincerely.

“Every beginning requires a mental reset. You need to remind yourself: I’m not the best yet, but I’m going to learn from the best.”

Chunghwa Telecom Women's Basketball Team (Photo Source: Chunghwa Telecom Women's Basketball Team FB)

To learn more, please see the links below:

Pan Tzu-Yin's Facebook

Pan Tzu-Yin's Instagram

Chunghwa Telecom Women's Basketball Facebook