Teams give their all at basketball tournament

Young and old, gathered at the Randburg Sports Complex to support and participate in a Randburg 3X3 Basketball Tournament.

Goerge Guyindla of the Randburg Elite displays some skills with a no-look pass. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

Randburg Elite bagged the grand prize of R5000 in the men’s division at the fifth edition of the Randburg 3X3 Basketball Tournament held at the Randburg Sports Complex.

The festival also featured the U14, 16, 18, and masters with four teams per category. They played each other and the two teams with the most points advanced to the finals.

The men’s category had 10 teams divided into two groups of five. The four best teams with the most points from each group qualified for the semi-finals.

Randburg Elite member Rodlam ‘Rods’ Barths said that they deserved the win and that they just wanted it more.

Beco Adrien dribbles Kano Matlowe at the Randburg Basketball Festival. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

“I can’t speak for the other teams but we prepared really well and built our chemistry for some weeks heading into the tournament. It wasn’t difficult for us because we were ready. I made a joke before the tournament started and said ‘if anyone smiles, we are benching you ’cause it’s only business today, nothing personal, nothing funny’.”

He added that they faced some great teams who were all very skilled in their own regard with different combinations of speed, athleticism, intelligence, shooting, rebounding and dribbling.

Rabbi Belolo looks to find the net in their game against Streets Cred. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

“I feel like we had all of that and defence to top it off and that’s what made us the champions of the day we were just as hungry defensively as we were offensively and that’s where we separated ourselves from everyone else in our category.”

All of the teams gave it their all during the festival, despite playing many games on a very hot day.

“Our coach conditions us very well so we had the stamina and energy levels, mentally, and to be prepared for any situation. No one said a word about being tired until after our team game at the tournament. I feel it was very hot today and I need a nap and a Red Bull, to be honest after everything.”

Skinny Boyz player Holy Mandungu tries to go past Streets Cred player John Olu-Daniels. Photo: Mthulisi Lwazi Khuboni

Organiser Leon Mwamba said that the tournament was a success and that people are looking forward to more events like it.

“Besides the fact that basketball is the fastest growing sport in the country and really has a great positive impact on the youth and the community; it also teaches important life skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership. People cannot wait to compete in a healthy environment while trying to stay fit.”