Flames burn off Tamaraws’ threat

 By JACK AMI

PAPUA New Guinea Men’s Basketball League champions Southern Flames beat Tamaraws 115- 103 in the season opener at the Taurama Indoor and Aquatic Centre on Sunday.

The semi-professional league season was tipped off by Minister for Petroleum and Energy Ben Micah.

Flames pulled off in the final quarter after they were forced into an even challenge by an organised opposition, who gave the game away through missed shots in the 37th minute mark.

The scores were tied at 19-19, 43-42 (Flames), 82-82 due to an all-round performance from Apia Muri, Charles Parapa and Purari Muri.

In the presence of the Basketball Federation Papua New Guinea president Nick Daroa and chief executive officer and PNG men’s coach Joel Kahlu, Parapa posted a high of 45, to set a new record for the competition.

Parapa, who was overlooked for selection for the national men’s squad, stole the show from the tip off.

He was supported by the Muri brothers Apia and Purari, who made their presence felt to get the attacking rolling.

Tamaraws, with the return of Robert Kave, following a season’s stint with Chariots, teamed up with Greg Travertz, Kiel Yutuc and Mark Palisco, who were in devastating form but were off in the deciding stages.

Travertz netted 24 to lead the double figures for his team, who had to battle against Parapa and the Muri brothers in the perimetre time and again.

Travertz was backed by Rap Nacu (22), Palisco and Kave (18), who each kept the momentum going but the opposition’s defensive recovery was on target which stopped their drive forward.

In the other matches, Chariots stopped West Jokers 65-60 while Saints marched over Exodus 87-76.

After round one Flames are 2 points , Saints 2, Chariots 2, West Jokers 0, Tamaraws 0 and Exodus 0.