Basketball in Africa

By Majuto Omary

The National Basketball League (NBL) is scheduled to start from May 10 to 16 in Mwanza, according to an official.

The secretary general of the Tanzania Basketball Federation (TBF), Lawrence Cheyo, said teams wishing to participate in the tournament should confirm before April 20.

He said the TBF is now soliciting funds from various sponsors in order to stage the championship.
"We are now seeking sponsors to support the tourney. Afterwards we shall hold a meeting to discuss preparations of the tournament," he said.
He urged winners of last year's event to submit the trophies before the confirmation date deadline. Jeshi Stars won last years titles in both men and women categories.

He said all regional men's teams that emerged champions would get direct qualifications while women's teams need no qualification criteria.
"We are promoting women teams and that's why we have allowed all to feature upon confirmation. It is our expectation that many teams will confirm," he said.

Meanwhile, Cheyo commended the Arusha Regional Basketball Association for hosting the intercity tournament that saw Mombasa (men) and Nairobi (women) emerge champions. He also hailed the Dar es Salaam team for finishing second in both categories.