Basketball in Africa

ALL is set for the start of the Harare Basketball League 2013-2014 season this coming weekend with all matches scheduled for Richwood Park.
The season is expected to take off tomorrow with matches featuring teams from all the three leagues --the A League, women's league and B League.
This year the A League will see 12 men's clubs competing in one conference unlike last year when they were two conferences running at the same time and the Harare Basketball Association recently held play-offs that saw UZ Stars and Airforce Falcons getting promotion into the A League.
HBA spokesperson, Carlos Munda, said the 2013-2014 season will be a season with a difference as they expect strong competition from the teams.
"The season has started, it's hardwork for everyone. We say to the basketball family come and have fun with us. This is a season of exception, it will bring a lot of difference in all seasons of basketball.
"Everyone is geared up - the players, coaches, referees and the administrators," said Munda.
Munda said matches for this weekend will be at Richwood as it will be the official opening of the season.
"All matches are at Richwood because it's the official opening. After the official opening, the matches will be spread to other venues. In terms of refurbishments it's almost done, however, we still need help but we did what we can," said Munda.
The HBA spokesperson said they are looking forward to a better and fruitful season, especially now that they have a new executive led by
veteran coach Ngoni Mukukula, who is an inspiration to many in the basketball fraternity.
Munda said some of the clubs are still registering and the affiliation fee has been pegged at US$285.
Fixtures
A League
Tomorrow: Cheetahs v UZ Stars, JBC v Trail Blazers, Cameo v Pistons.
Sunday: Raiders v Hustlerz.