Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BASKETBALL fever is about to grip Bulawayo as the Lakers Basketball Foundation prepares to host the 12th edition of the Lakers Annual Basketball Tournament, a flagship event that has become a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s basketball calendar.
Since its launch in 2010, the tournament has grown from a modest community competition into one of the country’s most anticipated sporting showcases, drawing elite teams from across Zimbabwe and beyond. What started as a local initiative to promote unity and competition has evolved into a vibrant celebration of talent, teamwork, and social impact.
This year’s edition, themed “Bounce Back for Mental Health: Strong Minds, Strong Teams,” will run from November 21 to 23 at the BCD Sports Complex. The Lakers Foundation continues to blend sport with community development, using basketball as a platform to promote resilience and mental wellness.
Foundation secretary Porcia Dube said the tournament represents more than just athletic rivalry.
“The Lakers tournament isn’t just about competition, it’s about connection. It brings together athletes from different cities, cultures, and backgrounds to share in the spirit of basketball, brotherhood, and growth. The event’s relevance goes far beyond the court, offering a rare opportunity for teams to interact, exchange experiences, and build networks that foster unity within the national basketball community and beyond,” she said.
As part of their build-up, the Foundation, in partnership with Eveline Girls High School, Lobels Bread, and Chaemike Branding and Signage, hosted its biggest-ever Under-16 tournament on October 18. The event attracted 32 schools and clubs from across the country, a major milestone that underscored the organisation’s focus on grassroots development and youth talent.
Dube said the Foundation’s long-term vision remains clear.
“As the Lakers Tournament enters its 12th edition, the Foundation remains committed to using basketball as a catalyst for youth development, community building, and social impact. With over a decade of success stories, we aim to expand our outreach, nurture emerging talent, promote mental health awareness, and strengthen communities through sport. Fans can expect a weekend of high-intensity matches, deep community engagement, and inspiring stories of perseverance when the tournament tips off at Khanyisile Sports Centre,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Basketball union of Zimbabwe has released the full list of candidates for its upcoming elections, set for November 25 in Gweru. The polls are expected to usher in a new executive to steer the game’s growth at a defining moment for Zimbabwean basketball.
Outgoing president Joe Mujuru confirmed the final list and called for professionalism during the process.
The presidential race will feature Lawrance Taurai Chitsinde, Sikhumbuzo Ndlovu, David Pick, and Johnson Shumba. Contesting for the secretary’s post are Brighton Ncube, Tonderayi Sengai, and Ignatius Yesaya.
In the Commission for Women and Youth Basketball, Rumbidzai Chari and Theresa Manuel will square off in a contest focused on empowerment and inclusion.
For the Athletes Commission, the presidency will be decided among Makomborero Bvudzawabaya, Nhlahla Ndlovu, and Masimba Hondoyedzomba, who will represent the interests of current and former players.
Some positions have already been filled unopposed, with Tonderayi Shasha confirmed as head of the Technical Commission, Francis Dube leading the Commission for Competitions, and Ncube doubling as treasurer after running uncontested.
