Victory Valley Royals and Block 22 Flames recorded contrasting victories when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) U-23 Championship commenced at the Amelia’s Ward Hard-court.
The Royals overcame the home side, the Amelia’s Ward Jets, by a 42-39 score. Collin Phillips and Kobe Tappin were the primary threats for the visitors, as they amassed 13 and 12 points, respectively. On the other side, Jennis Benjamin tallied 11 points, while relative Leon Benjamin chipped in with seven points.
Meanwhile, Block 22 Flames scorched the Central Mackenzie Kings 57-30. Jonathan Clarke led the winner with a game-high 19 points, with the combination of Leron Joseph and Jumane Reynolds the next best scorers with 17 and 12 points, respectively.
On the other end, Tyrese Arthur and Jemol Semple recorded eight points, while Jeron Watson added five points. The event is slated to resume tonight at the same venue. In the opening match, the hosts, Amelia’s Ward Jets, will lock horns with the Block 22 Flames from 18:30hrs, while the second contest will pit the Retrieve Raiders against the Victory Valley Royals at 20:30hrs.
The event is being contested utilising an initial round-robin format comprising two groups. At the conclusion of the group stage, the top two finishers and eventual runners-up will advance to the semifinal segment.
