Idaman, Golden Bati tipped

Idaman and Golden Bati have been eyed as top contenders for the inaugural Christmas Championship to kick off at the Lautoka Multipurpose Courts today.

With the services of national rep Koli Matalau, Idaman is regarded as the side to look out for in the men's division whilst the GB looks good to top the women's division.

However, Basketball Development Officer Laisiasa Puama has not ruled out strong competition from the other giant killers.

“The Vikings led by Simi Cagilaba and national rep Jale Vunisa have home advantage so they will be out for a win,” Puamau said.

“We have Raiwaqa champions Bryceland who have the services of 2004 national U20 skipper Serf Peterson. Not to be counted out are the Easter and Suva champs Shaq Attaq led by national rep David Whippy who will be supported well by national U20 rep Manoa Puamau.”

In the women's division tournament favourites Golden Bati led by national U20 captain Britney Hazelman will face stiff competition from current Suva rivals X- Wounds and Wed C and from Lautoka based giants Vikings.

The tournament which attracted a total of 20 teams (13 men's & 7 women's) will mark the end of the 2009 basketball season.

According to Puamau the Christmas championship which has been organised by the Lautoka Basketball Association with the assistance of Basketball Fiji.

The championship will become an annual event in Basketball Fiji annual calendar of events from next year.

Basketball Fiji president Iowane Naivalurua will officially open the tournament at 8am with pool games to begin proper at 9am. A total of 41 games will be played prior to the semi-finals.

The top two from each pool after pool games will qualify for the semi-finals which is hoped to kick at 4pm.

The Fiji Sun Online

Saturday 12th December, 2009





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