Zimpapers Logo

Sports Reporter
AFTER emerging winners of the inaugural Harare Mayor’s Invitational Basketball Challenge over the weekend, Harare City Hornets coach Langton Moyo has applauded his side for giving a good account of themselves in the event. The three-day tournament attracted clubs from as far as Botswana, Malawi, Namibia and Zambia. Hornets beat Lusaka City Council Looters 52-35 in the men’s final.

They had beaten Mercenaries 47-34 in the semi-finals while Looters defeated Matero Magic from Zambia 68-67 in a closely-contested game.

Moyo said they are humbled by their victory and added that they have taken some steps forward after winning the inaugural event.

“We are very honoured and humbled to be the champions of the inaugural Mayor’s challenge but at the same time we are happy we took a couple of steps forward,” said Moyo.

Hornets, who were the hosting club took advantage of the tournament to also assess their new acquisitions – shooting guard Warren Tegama, who is joining the side from Hustlers, 19-year-old Blessing Mlambo a student at UZ and small forward Tichaona Chinyangani.

Moyo was impressed with the three players and said they still have room to make one more addition to their team as they are now preparing for the new season and the Africa Club Championships coming soon.

“We are back on the court in a few days, we are not wasting anytime so this week we are back on the court to start preparing for the new season and the Africa Club Championships.

“We still have a position for one extra player . . . the tournament kind of helped us check where we need an extra piece so we are taking our time,” said Moyo.

In the women’s section Weekend Squad from Namibia were the champions after beating Bravehearts of Malawi 54-45.

On their way to the final Weekend Squad dismissed Mavericks from 37-24 in the last four while Bravehearts prevailed 43-37 over Matero Magic.

Harare City Hornets chairperson Sani Mbofana described the inaugural event as a success.

“I can safely say the Harare Mayor’s Invitational Basketball Challenge lived up to expectations. The experience was just electric and I tell you this is one regional tournament most likely to stick to people’s minds for a long time.

“In terms of the Harare City Hornets’ objectives of becoming the biggest basketball club in the country, region and indeed the continent one day, we are on course. With an inaugural tournament becoming this successful we promise an even better next year,” said Mbofana.