Southern Zone Basketball League (Sozobal) Chairperson Raymond Chioko believes the 2023 season will be the most competitive and electrifying in recent years.
Chioko made the statement after the season got underway on Saturday, with matches taking place at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (Kuhes) Sports Complex.
“The season started impressively as all the teams appeared well prepared. We watched exciting matches during the opening weekend with encouraging team play and individual brilliance,” he said.
Chioko said if players and teams continue with impressive performances, then it will be difficult to determine the champions.
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During the opening weekend, Hydin Mafuta continued with the form that got him the 2022 Season Most Valuable Player award by leading Crazy Warriors in their 69- 65 win over Firestorms.
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Mafuta scored 27 points including six three-pointers.
In another match, Division One champions CDHIB started their title defence by making easy work of Lox360.
Emmanuel Lembi led the team with 20 points and caught fire beyond the arc, knocking down four three-pointers in the process.
Debutant Boyd Ndau pitched in with 18 points.
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In another game, Mikoko started strongly by defeating last season’s third-placed side Bricks 69-59. Mikoko captain Don Gama’s 15 of 16 points came from three pointers.
Veteran Victor Jere of Bricks could not rally his team with his game leading 18 points.
