Disputes stop men’s basketball final

Sports

By ZACHERY PER
SUMALE Souths, Kabuta Souths and City Rangers settled for K2,500 each after disputes prevented National Souths Basketball League from holding their men’s final in Goroka, Eastern Highlands.
Mendi Menjals claimed the women’s title and K10,000 after they beat Kutubu Lakers who received K5,000 for their efforts. Third-placed Sumale Souths and Giru Souths each bagged K1,250.
“The 2021 tournament is the biggest in the history of National Souths Basketball League since its inception,” patron Johnny Yawari said.
“A total of 18 clubs and 36 teams of men and women graced the floor of YC Hall and Mormons basketball courts,” he said.
Yawari said league officials and sponsors were thrilled to see Southern Highlands and Hela basketballers showcasing their skills.
“Both provinces are known for rugby league talents, but basketballers came here and more than held their own,” he said.
“The talents were endless as the mother-daughter combination of Mrs (Rachael) Marape (Prime Minister James Marape’s wife) and Rayzina Marape propelled City Rangers to the semifinals.”
The Rangers men’s team also boasted a father-son combination in David and Nimrod Wereh.
“I thank the major sponsor, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited, and minor sponsor, Foe Investment Corporation, for making the tournament possible,” Yawari said.
“A big thanks to (Eastern Highlands) Governor Peter Numu and Goroka MP Aiye Tambua for attending and supporting the tournament.
“We thank also thank Goroka police for ensuring a peaceful and successful completion of the tournament.”