Here's How Tim De Kok Inspires Others Through Sports

The basketball advocate inspiring on and off the court

At just eighteen years old, Tim De Kok is making waves as a professional athlete in Southeast Asia. The Dutch-Vietnamese basketball prospect has already made his mark—a rookie of the year awardee, a national team player, among others.

“Movement was a constant in my childhood, thanks to my parents who encouraged me to explore various sports. However, basketball ignited a true passion,” he shares. What began as a simple game evolved into a disciplined lifestyle built on training and self-improvement.

Tim follows a streamlined fitness routine: when he’s playing for the Vietnamese Basketball Association, he prioritizes strength training and agility exercises. Off-season, he focuses on overall athleticism— weightlifting, yoga for flexibility, and endurance conditioning. Consistently, he ensures getting proper nutrition, adequate recovery, and quality sleep.

Mental clarity is also equally important to Tim. “I visualize and rehearse my success in high-stakes moments. Breathing exercises also keep me grounded. These practices sharpen my focus, helping me stay calm and adaptable under pressure,” he says.

Preferring small and consistent progress over grand yet one-off gestures, Tim commits to manageable habits: a ten-minute workout, a constant hydration routine, or occasional mental resets, for instance. “Intentional steps compound over time, transforming your physical and mental well-being without overwhelming your life.”

It’s a polished approach that has influenced his style and self-care habits, keeping things simple and streamlined. “My style is clean and minimal— functional pieces that look sharp and feel comfortable. Authenticity drives my choices, from breathable training gear to sleek casual fits. Grooming is simple: consistent skincare, hydration, and products that reflect my values,” he shares.

These holistic habits came in handy when Tim made the jump toward professional basketball. “The leap in intensity and expectations tested my confidence. Doubts crept in, but my daily habits—extra practice, meticulous recovery, and positive self-talk—kept me grounded. Pushing past discomfort taught me that growth lies just beyond the urge to quit.”

Beyond the court, Tim works with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to encourage young people to remain active through sport. Through persistence, self-discipline, and pride in his heritage, he’s creating a solid narrative for Southeast Asian men in sports.

“Many see professional basketball as all glamour—highlights and applause. The reality is a relentless grind: early mornings, injuries, and sacrifices. I share my full journey, not just the wins, to show young athletes that resilience and patience, not just talent, build success.”

In his journey of setting an example, breaking stereotypes, and opening doors for others through action and advocacy, his father’s words resonate and motivate him. “Success is giving your all and being proud of who you’re becoming,” he muses. “It redefined success for me—beyond stats, it’s about growth. This keeps me grounded, fuels my work ethic, and inspires me to celebrate progress, not just results.”

Wise beyond his years, Tim encourages his fellow Southeast Asians to be confident and believe that they have a place in the world. “By bringing our unique stories, values, and work ethic to every space, we redefine perceptions. Embracing our cultural richness with professionalism creates opportunities and inspires the next generation to do the same.”

Tim’s story inspires willpower—that we should embrace our heritage, pursue our passions, and lead with intention. His journey is just beginning, and the world is watching.