Basketball finals held up by defaulting franchises

THE Premier Men’s Basketball League competition has called on clubs to pay their registration before the finals.
The PMBL board unanimously agreed that all clubs needed to pay their K10,000 registration in order for the finals to be staged.
It is believed only three teams — Southern Flames, Moni Plus and Exodus.
Saints have only paid K2000 while Chariots and new side Digaso Hornbills have yet to pay their registration fee.
With the Taurama Aquatic Centre to be handed over to Apec local organsiers this month, the PMBL board is pushing for fees to be settled quickly.
However, with the majority of finalists having already paid their fees, the playoffs are likely to go ahead.
PMBL general secretary Kevin Teme, said the league had given enough time to all the six franchises to settle their fees.
“The clubs need to get serious about being in this elite competition. They’ve been given enough time. We’re already into our finals,” Teme said.
“Everyone has to do their part. You can’t just rely on one or two clubs. Everyone has to pay their dues.”
Teme said the new executive were aiming to run a successful finals series despite the shortened season.
The top four teams are Southern Flames, Moni Plus, Saints and Exodus.
“Only two of these clubs have paid in full their fees with Exodus paying some.
“If need be we could change the finals format to make a three-team competition if Saints don’t settle their outstanding registration.”
Teme thanked John Kapi Natto and his security firm Kutubu Security Service Ltd for sponsoring the technical officials and game management.
“On behalf of the new PMBL board and its management including the six franchises, we thank John Kapi Natto, his wife Vonnie and the staff and management of Kutubu Security Service for stepping in to assisting the PMBL run its competition this year,” Teme said.
“Without their support PMBL would not have a competition this season.”
The PMBL is the country’s only elite domestic basketball competition with a new board is headed by Alain Boussoungou.
Past PMBL seasons have been tainted by non-payment of grand final prize money to winners.