Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
WITH the Matabeleland North Basketball League season fast coming to an end, Victoria Falls Panthers boosted their championship ambitions with a spirited 68–60 victory over city rivals Victoria Falls Suns at Chamabondo Primary School.
The result solidifies Panthers’ position at the top of the standings, placing them in a commanding position to clinch the league title with just two matches remaining.
Suns looked the sharper side in the opening half, dictating the pace. They edged both the first and second quarters 15–13 to carry a 30–26 advantage into half-time.
Panthers regrouped and began to assert control in the third quarter, tightening their defence while improving their offensive execution. They had a dominant fourth quarter, in which they poured in 27 points.
Key contributions for Panthers came from Joash Muchemwa, Bernard Chirwa, Francis, Munashe Kakurira, Solomon Ncube, Takudzwa Mashayamombe, Emmanuel Chitinhe and Lawrence Yanako.
Suns, who remain among the closest challengers in the league, fielded Walter Masunda, Isaac Sibanda, Kevin Thebe, Tashinga Bara, Craig Khumalo, Seth and Coen Tsambani. Their strong first-half showing highlighted their potential, but they struggled to maintain the intensity after the interval.
Matabeleland North Basketball League chairperson Brighton Musaidzi said the match was a true reflection of the league’s competitiveness as the season draws to a close.
“We are seeing the league becoming more competitive with each passing game, and this match is a perfect example. Panthers showed great character to come back, while Suns also proved they are strong contenders,” said Musaidzi.
He added that such closely contested encounters are key to the development of basketball in the province.
“These are the kind of games that help grow the sport. The intensity, discipline and quality on display show that basketball in Matabeleland North is moving in the right direction,” he said.
With the season approaching its conclusion, Panthers are now firmly in control of the title race, while Suns will need favourable results in the remaining fixtures to keep their hopes alive.
Quarter scores:
1st: Suns 15, Panthers 13
2nd: Suns 15, Panthers 13
3rd: Suns 10, Panthers 15
4th: Suns 20, Panthers 27
