Buay, emerging from a refugee background, successfully assimilated into Australian culture and basketball. Despite significant challenges, his unwavering drive propelled him to the NJCAA Division 1 level in the United States, an achievement rare for both high school athletes and even rarer for international players, him coming from Australia. Overcoming initial difficulties, Buay's remarkable determination paved the way for him to become the first in his family to pursue a professional sports career. Where he achieved his goal of becoming a professional basketball player as a semi-professional basketball player for the Dandenong Rangers in the competitive NBL1 South division.

Buay is known for his relentless work ethic and discipline. During his high school years, Buay would wake up at 4:30am twice a week and travel for an hour before school to make sure he gets in his extra skills sessions. While training in the afternoon everyday after school, showcasing a relentless commitment to improving his basketball skills.

Buay's hard work and determination have resulted in remarkable achievements. Earning distinctions such as the most improved player, season MVP, and finals MVP in 2010 for the Newstars U16 club. He also secured the defensive player of the year award and led in blocks in the U18 category with 3.4 that same year. In 2011, Buay continued his success with finals MVP at the U18 level and maintained dominance in shot-blocking and rebounds, leading in both categories.