Gunnerz Basketball Team was crowned the winner and champions of the 2024 Solomon Power and Solomon Submarine Cable sponsored Honiara Basketball Leagues (HBL) of the Men’s A Division.
The team walked away with their hard cash prize during the Basketball League’s competition awards night held on Tuesday evening at the Heritage Park Hotel.
Speaking to Star Sports Gunners Head coach Augustine Basia said, he was happy with the result since they have battled hard to reach the top of the competition.
“Our aim is to finish first in the session and I would like to congratulate my boys on our win.
“Finishing first is more than what we hope for.
“This is another milestone and a history for the boys as well.
“Going and playing throughout the session, is really tough, and its all about hard work and commitment.
“And we picked out what we need to improve on in the next session.
“We look forward for other future basketball tournaments to participate in,” he said.
He acknowledged the key sponsors and partners Solomon Power and Solomon Submarine Cable for their support in involving young people in the sport and to engage them from unwanted social behaviours.
“Lastly, for our supporters, families and friends who have behind and supported us all through out the competition,” Coach Basia said.
The Gunners also won the third place of the Men’s B Division while Kings Guard claimed the Division title and Defenders scooped all the fourth places in the three different categories for both men and women.
The official results of the 2024 Solomon Power and Solomon Submarine Cable Honiara Basketball League are as follows:
For the Men’s A Division Awards saw;
1st place: Gunnerz
2nd place: Crusaders
3rd place: Filsol
4th place: Defenders
For the Men’s B Division saw;
1st place: Kings Guard
2nd place: Sosa
3rd Gunners
4th Defenders
Meanwhile, for the women’s Division Awards;
1st place: Eclipse
2nd Sunrise
3rd Eldivas
4th Defenders
Speaking at the Basketball League Awards Night, Vice President of the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) Gloria Wong expressed her acknowledgment to the participating teams.
“Your passion, dedication, and sportsmanship bring this event (game) to life.
“Each match played is a testament to the hard work and determination that defines basketball.
“You inspire us all, and your efforts are truly commendable,” Mrs. Wong said.
She also expressed her deepest gratitude to the sponsors and partners who have made the competition possible.
“Your support is the foundation of this event’s success and the growth of the sport, basketball.
“Through this support, it allows us to reach new heights, foster talents, and bring communities together.
“Your support contributions have not only supported to helped nature the future of basketball, encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams in basketball.
“With your continued support, we look forward to many more years of promoting and growing the sport we all love,” the Vice President concluded.
By RAYMOND HULANGA
Solomon Star, Honiara.
