Team Orca emerged as champions of the 1st Nagaland Open Basketball Tournament after defeating Kohima Chiefs in the final match at the Imkongmeren Sports complex basketball court.
In an exhilarating first quarter, the two teams from Kohima fought it out as Team Orca took the lead with 19-16. The in–form Team Orca penetrated through the Kohima Chiefs’ defenses to take a substantial lead in the second quarter with 48-33
The spirited Kohima Chiefs chased down Team Orca by the mid of the 3rd quarter to level the score but Team Orca fiercely fought back to end the quarter with the team leading 69-62.
The Kohima Chiefs gave a determined fight in the final quarter but the unstoppable Team Orca took the lead again and with it the title.
Speaking to Mokokchung Times after the match, Team Orca’s Kevin Tale expressed his joy to be playing in Mokokchung for the first time and that to win the title was truly a great feeling.
Winning the tournament, Team Orca received a cash price of Rs. 60,000 and a glittering new trophy while the Kohima Chiefs received a cash price of Rs. 30,000 and certificates.
Chumbemo from Team Orca was adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final match who received a cash prize of Rs. 5000 and certificate.
Earlier in the day, Longdiba L Sangtam, SDO(C) Mokokchung, who graced the closing ceremony as chief guest congratulated the Basketball Association Mokokchung District for organizing the tournament in the district and for providing an opportunity for the youngsters to showcase their talents.
He went on to say that even though the youngsters are interested in the game, the lack of infrastructure hampers the interest of the youths. He said that the basketball court in the district is fairly new and said that “with such a humble beginning, our youngsters can also pick up and get opportunities in the days to come.”
He asserted that the country is stressing much on the field of sports in recent times and so he encouraged the youngsters who are interested in sports to take up sports seriously as a profession to reap the benefits the government is investing.
The day also saw the 3 point shootout contest where Relise K Thonger won in the Men’s category while Lipokienla won the Women’s category.
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