The ManicaPost
Blessing Rwizi and Blessing Gondokondo
MERCENARIES’ men and Sharks’ ladies basketball teams won the Manicaland Basketball Association 2016/17 season opening tournament last Saturday.
The tournament was held at Mutare Boys’ High School where hundreds of basketball fans converged to witness the clash of the province’s best teams.
Dangamvura Knights, Dangamvura Sixers, Sophists, Mercenaries, Africa University, Chikanga Hustlaz, Rusape Giants, Morningside Chiefs and Titans participated in the males’ category, while Dangamvura Knights, Africa University, Sharks, Mutare Girls’ High and Nets battled it out in the ladies’ category.
Nets and Titans are newcomers in the MBA League.
Mercenaries were the undefeated champions of the tournament as they topped in Group A where they were pitted against Titans, Sixers and Africa University. They also won 51-28 against Sophists in the semi-finals and thrashed Titans 78-55 in the finals.
In the ladies’ section, Sharks won 23-9 against AU and 21-18 against Nets who proved hot as newcomers.
The last match took fans by surprise as Nets were stunned by a determined Sharks.
MBA spokesperson, Taurai Dhliwayo, said: “The opening tournament was really great with Titans and Nets being threats to the existing teams. As we are continuing this weekend, we are still appealing for sponsorship. Doors are open to anyone who is willing to help us so that we can have an exciting season.
There shall be lots of braai and beverages during the opening matches, so I urge people in Mutare and beyond to come in their numbers to witness the clash of the giants and have fun.”
