Moffat Mungazi
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
DESPITE struggling to secure substantial corporate partnerships, Manicaland Basketball Association (MBA) concluded the season on a high note with a vibrant end-of-season awards ceremony last Saturday, thanks to the support from UK-based Taurai Dhliwayo.
The well-attended event, held at Mwenje Chillspot Court, saw Wolves and national team player, Fadzayi Munongo, and Dangamvura Knights’ Tadiwa Muratu receiving the coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards in the female and male categories, respectively.
MBA spokesperson, Teererai Overseas Matibini expressed gratitude to stakeholders who contributed to the event’s resounding success.
“As MBA, we are really grateful to our partners for coming on board to make this event a huge success. Being the first ever awards ceremony for MBA, it had its fair share of challenges, but no doubt the future is bright.
“We will forever remain grateful to one of our own, Taurai Dhliwayo, who chipped in with resources to make the event a success. May God abundantly bless him. We are looking forward to making this an annual event,” he said.
Tinashe ‘‘Tinabee’’ Chandaida, a renowned figure in basketball circles, secured the prestigious Coach of the Year award.
As the head coach of Sporto Hoopers, Chandaida has become a linchpin in junior basketball development in Manicaland.
His astute ability to identify talent, coupled with his unwavering commitment to nurturing young players, has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the region’s most promising stars.
Respected for his discipline, humility, and technical acumen, Chandaida’s recognition is richly deserved.
He stands as a vital asset to the MBA, not only for his impressive competitive record, but also for cultivating the next generation of basketball players.
Villa Stars capped an outstanding 2024/25 MBA season, garnering an impressive array of individual and team accolades.
The team swept three major individual awards, and was also crowned Best Dressed Team, reflecting their exceptional talent and professionalism, both on and off the court.
The award winners from Villa Stars included Emmanuel ‘‘Manex’’ Munorwei, who was named the Best Shooting Guard.
Renowned for his precision and experience, Munorwei consistently delivered clutch performances for the team.
Fellow Villa Stars player, Aaron ‘‘Adzola’’ Kupangwa was named the Best Assister, a fitting tribute to his exceptional vision and trademark crossover, which left defences scrambling throughout the season.
Panashe ‘‘Pablo’’ Nyandoro was named Rookie of the Year. As a dynamic newcomer, Nyandoro showcased incredible scoring ability and speed, becoming an instant fan favourite.
Marcus James, the dominant forward for D Knights, was named the Best Rebounder of the 2024/25 season.
This prestigious recognition celebrated his exceptional ability to control the boards on both ends of the court and his consistent impact throughout the season.
However, it was the Muratu family that made history at the 2024/25 awards. Mambo Muratu, affectionately known as Mambo, walked away with the Supporter of the Year Award for his unwavering dedication to the game, while his son, national Under-17 Most Valuable Player, Tadiwa Muratu, snatched the MBA MVP award.
Millan Moila Manyepo, the owner of Mutare Heat Basketball Club, won the People’s Choice Award.
Born and raised in Dangamvura, Manyepo is a passionate ambassador for women’s basketball, renowned for her profound love of the game.
Under her inspirational leadership, Mutare Heat Basketball Club achieved a commendable second runners-up finish this season, a testament to her unwavering drive and vision.
Online Reporter