FULL COURT PRESS IGNITES THE STORM: Empandeni High School hosts a performance for ages, Mat South Nash under 20 basketball tournament

THE BUZZER BEATS THE REST: Thekwane and Empandeni High Schools stand tall.

The Nash Mat South Under 20  Basketball Tournament, held at Empandeni High School under the skilled leadership of Mr. M. Ndlovu (Head in Charge of Mat South Basketball), culminated in a thrilling finale, as Thekwane High School emerged triumphant in the boys' category and Empandeni High School claimed the top spot in the girls' division. 

The tournament showcased a wide range of exceptional talent from participating teams, with Thekwane High School edging out Cyrene High School 52-50 in a thrilling boys' finale that went down to the wire. Empandeni High School dominated the girls' division, defeating Minda High School 43-12 with a dazzling display of skill and teamwork. 

Mtshabezi High School, led by Coach and Tournament Director Mr. Brighton Ncube, showed remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament. Their girls' team put up a valiant effort, narrowly losing to Minda High by just three points in the semi-finals. The boys' team also demonstrated great potential, losing by a single point to Thekwane High in their semi-final match. Mtshabezi High's performance was a testament to their dedication and passion for basketball, and they are certainly a team to watch in future tournaments.

Embakwe High lost their semi-final match to Cyrene by six points, and Usher High faced a tough defeat to Empandeni by 19 points.

In the boys category, Thekwane High School was crowned champion, with Cyrene High School taking home the runner up prize. "My boys played very throughout the tournament, we faced resistance from teams like Phakamani and Wanezi, but we overcame and showed true championship spirit.

Hats off to thekwane, they've been pushing to dethrone us for sometime now, and their day finally came after years of stumbling. Well done to their coaching staff, and we looking forward to them joining us and representing mat south in the top schools tournament to be at Empandeni at the end of July 2024." 

In the girls' division, Empandeni High School emerged victorious, while Minda High School secured the second spot " our girls played with heart and determination. We're proud of their effort and look forward to building on this experience," said Minda's coach Ms. N. Dube.

" We are absolutely delighted to have hosted this tournament and extend our sincerest gratitude to the participating teams for their exemplary sportsmanship and skill," said Mr. M. Ncube the sports director of Empandeni High School. " Our institution is committed to fostering basketball excellence and promoting a culture of healthy competition, and we look forward to continuing this tradition."

Thekwane High School's coach Mr. M. Gwenzi, lauded his team's unwavering determination and teamwork, saying, " our boys demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill throughout the tournament and this victory is a testament to their tireless efforts and dedication." 

Mr . S. V. Ndlovu a coach to Empandeni High  School attributed their success to their team's cohesion and strategic approach, saying, " our girls played with passion, purpose, and precision, and their victory is a direct result of their relentless hard work and commitment."

The tournament was graced by the presence of the Guest of Honour, Mr. N Nyamambi, the Provincial Nash Chairperson, who commended the teams on their exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

The medals were generously sponsored by Save Premier Chemicals, represented by Mr. Chivayo, and the floating trophies were sponsored by Lakers Foundation, led by S. V. Ndlovu.

Tournament Director, Mr. Brighton Ncube (also the Coach of Mtshabezi High), and Host Sports Director, Mr. Mkhululi Ncube, ensured a seamless and thrilling event.

The tournament was a celebration of basketball, sportsmanship, and youth empowerment, and we look forward to next year's event!

Congratulations to Thekwane and Empandeni High Schools on their outstanding performances, and to Cyrene and Minda High Schools on their well-deserved runner up finishes.