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Free State regional games 2009

victor — Thu, 28 May 2009 19:50:41 +0000

Manguang, Bloemfontein was a buzz as teams from around the province gathered to battle it out to see who would earn the title of King and Queens of the Free State. Saturday 23 May 2009 was the date and ballers had been waiting for this day for a very long time. The last games that I attended were a mess with no executive members around to give guidance, no refs for ladies games and some unpleasant words were said to opposing teams. I was hoping that this would turn out to be much better and it really did.This time clubs came prepared. CUT (Panthers, BLOEM) and CUT (Wolves, WELKOM) were proactive when they saw that no officials were available and decided to play each other. This was a day of solutions and not problems so the first fixture was for ladies, CUT Panthers vs. CUT Wolves. The Panthers team was confident even though they hadn’t been practicing for the past 3 weeks due to exams but they were the first team out of the gates scoring the first 12 points without reply. Fast-breaks were the order of the day. Not to be out done, the Wolves mounted a comeback of note. The wolves were enjoying support from the crowd and by half time they had cut the score to 5 points. Number 4 and 10 for Wolves were getting to the basket at ease and making life difficult on the defensive end. At the end of the day Panthers had more fire power to outplay and came out victorious with a 52-41 win going the way of Panthers. Sadly that was the only ladies game for the day.

The second game featured CUT Wolves (Welkom) vs. Hoop Stars (Bloem).The hoop stars were favorites’ after winning a recent tournament but the wolves were not having any of that. Hoop Stars were clear that they want to make a statement and made easy fast-break points whilst Mpho from wolves kept missing easy baskets. This was a very fast game with both teams not being shy of running up and down the court. Hoop Stars looked more organized and as such enjoyed the lead going into the second. The game got very interesting with both team playing some good basketball and having the crowd entertained. Abe from Wolves vs. Mojalefa from Hoop stars was becoming a reality with both players trying to give their teams a much needed boost going to the close of this tight game. At the end Wolves took the game 59 – 53.

Other Games to take place:

A rebuilding CUT Panthers Out battled the Allanridge Gladiators 78-40

Rockland Mets lost 53-66 to Khayalami

Snipers were thumbed 74-58 by Alumni

Notes on the day

It was great to see teams reclaim basketball as their rightful sport. Even though there were no officials to co-ordinate the games teams pulled in the same direction to ensure games were played whilst ensuring clubs provided refs as well. Thank you to all the refs that volunteered and Ms Aleta from Panthers for taking score for ALL the games that played. I hope next time that the executive come to games they come to ensure THEIR program is running well but not just passing by. At the end of the day basketball was a sure winner. Noticeable absentees were teams from Bethlehem and QwaQwa. Hope to see those teams at the next games. Lets get more women teams playing in the league is also a must.2 teams is not enough.

FREE STATE BASKETBALL, A GIANT AWAKENS……………………..WE DO BASKETBALL!!!

Article by Kimathi Tobothi

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KBL 18/10/2008 – Goodness gracious champions.

Fridex — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:46:59 +0000

GOODNESS GRACIOUS CHAMPIONS!!!

The Best Four Finals were the best exhibition of basketball in the Free State in as many years. The occasion was much better than the previous finals of the Kovsie Basketball League. The outstanding feature of the games was the sponsors who supported the game. Captain Doregoes, Champion, Sneakers Inc. 051 Clothing Brand and the Kovsie Alumni Trust translated the Best Four Finals in a class of its own. Captain Doregoes is a fast food chain store which specializes in fresh fish. Champion is a sports apparel that is making a mark as the number 1 supplier of basketball attire. Sneakers Inc is a sports retailer which sells brands of value such as Champion. 051 is a premium clothing label which is manufactured in an exclusive manner. Kovsie Alumni Trust is a foundation of the University of the Free State. The artistic manner in which the participants manifested was a tribute to the sponsors of the league and what their brands stood for.

Alumni were crowned the champions of Kovsie Basketball League in the second consecutive year. They beat Dynasty 51- 43 in a one sided final at the University of the Free State. Given any day, there was nothing which was going to stop Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi and company from clinching the title. Except Jabu Cebekhulu, all the players were available for selection in the Best Four Finals. Alumni displayed the best defence ever encountered in the league. They gave their opponents no chance of penetrating the zone.

With a half time score of 23 – 8, the writing gradually appeared on the wall for Dynasty.

The game started at a slow pace with both sides cautious when in control. Alumni began their well thought zone, limiting Dynasty to take shots outside the 3-point arc. Dynasty failed to put the shots in while Alumni had it easier on the offence.

Dynasty came back to the game late in the fourth quarter. Itumeleng Makolomakoe was coerced into a cautious play as he accumulated 4 fouls by the beginning of the interval. Even the Most Valuable Player, Lebogang Lentsoe began to play better in this quarter taking 7 rebounds and making 5 assists.

The game did not meet the expectations for a final but it was an awesome exhibition of basketball.

Alumni advanced to the finals by beating Khayalami 66-32. Dynasty were the lucky finalists having won 68-64 against Hoop Stars. In the first instance, Rookie of the Year, Molefi Tau was having a difficult time of motivating his teams mates to soldier on. Alumni was not going to give away easy baskets. But the poor defence of Khayalami gave them an edge.

The only exciting game was Dynasty and Hoop Stars. Sechaba Leroala became the youngest player to receive the highest points award with 27 points per game. He did not only score 30 points in this game, but mesmerised the defence of the opponents and left then exposed at the back door. In the end, the experience of Dynasty counted more.

The organisers would like to thank the participants in this year. It has been a tough year but we managed to stage a well executed Best Four Finals. The league did have its problems and we have learnt from them. The contributions of the critics have been helpful and ensured a victory for basketball.

We are looking forward to a successful 2009. We believe in basketball and its ability to bring the world closer.

Thank you.

Article supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe.

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KBL 11/10/2008 – Only the Best Four Finals!

victor — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 07:08:38 +0000

KBL 11/10/2008 – Only the Best Four Finals!

Dynasty overcame Alumni with a 55 – 48 score to advance to the semi finals of Kovsie Basketball League unbeaten. On the other hand Hoop Stars were quick to embarrass Khayalami Hostel of the University of the Free State with a 50 – 41 win.

These matches were a rehearsal of the best four final event taking place on October 18 2008 at Kovsies. They culminated into a war zone as teams were looking to gain a psychological advantage ahead of the coveted finals sponsored by Captain Doregoes, Champion, 051 Clothing Label, Sneakers inc. and Kovsie Alumni Trust of the University of the Free State.

In the first semifinal on Saturday, Dynasty will meet Hoop Stars. Whilst the former has an upper hand in this game the latter proved their capability to disappoint any opponent. The coach, Lefa Vetstock vowed to dedicate the entire week preparing his team for the crucial fourth quarter. Statistics will confirm that Hoop Stars lost their matches with Dynasty in the fourth quarter. The boys from Mangaung also perform better when their coach, who is also a referee of wheel chair basketball, is around to mentor them. For that matter, Vetstock will be at the courtside over the weekend.

Dynasty has been the team to beat in the league. They are in a league of their own particularly when all their players are available for selection. Their movements on the court can be attributed by the understanding they have with each other, individually and as a team. The team is so unified that identifying their key man is tantamount to looking for a needle in a haystack. The one thing that these lads from Thaba Nchu lack is height so one can take advantage of that if you prepare well. Never mind the fourth quarter; Lefa Vetstock will have to deal with the crisp movements and accurate jumpers which are a habit when this team is on full strength.

Alumni should be holding their heads at the prospects of meeting Khayalami hostel in the second semi final. After all Khayalami is up 2-0 this season. However Alumni who have not impressed are expected to have players such as Teboho Phafoli back in the squad. Not that it matters since Khayalami began to prepare for this encounter immediately after their loss to Hoop Stars. They look set to recall the vertically accomplished Papi Radebe and their rebound king Eric Duko.

Alumni will be at their best for these semifinals as history will tell. Although they have not been consistent this year, the best four finals will be a different ball game for Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi and co. Anyway their loss to Khayalami does not matter anymore. Tshepo Phamotse proclaimed Alumni as the champions again this year. But the most talk will be done on the court.

The Best Four Finals will begin at 9am at the University of the Free State. There will be a lot of entertainment from our own DJ Donught. Cheer leaders will also be present and much more entertainment available.

Information supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe

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KBL 20/09/2008 – Khayalami disappoints Alumni

victor — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:27:49 +0000

With four weeks remaining for the Best Four Finals, Khayalami is establishing themselves as the underdogs to become the Kovsie Basketball League champions.

Khayalami made it 2-0 against Alumni in a pulsating encounter at the University of the Free State. The win represented the growing strength of the team which shot to the number two spot after Dynasty. Moreover it indicated the foundation to build the hostel as a sanctuary for basketball in the campus of the University of the Free State. The scribes who profess will power to success are forever correct. More so when the win culminated from a concerted team effort.Despite the cold weather, Alumni began the game the game on high. Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi scored all the 8 points against 5 of the opponents in the first quarter. Tshepo Phamotse was not left behind as he made all the baskets for Alumni in the second quarter. The half time score of 13-9 to Alumni was a reflection of a chilly weather which made it less possible for effective exhibition of the sport of basketball. It was the inspiration of Papa Tau which changed the approach of Khayalami. Tau took the leadership from the fouled-out Ntlantla Mloyeni who was not impressive, scoring just one basket in the proceedings. The point guard directed his team mates to position themselves and take jumpers closer to the rim. On the other hand the inspirational Likhi who made the last 3 points on the scoresheet misinterpreted the urgency required to win the game. With 5 seconds remaining on the clock, Likhi missed a jumper instead of penetrating the defence for a lay-up and draw a foul. The score ended 27-26 to Khayalami.

Dynasty maintained their unbeaten record with a 49-45 win against Hoop Stars. The absence of Lefa Vetstock, the coach of Hoop Stars may have contributed to this particular loss. After leading all the three quarters, and starting off the last one with an upper hand, Hoop Stars completely lost the plot with the last three minutes. Instead of holding holding possession, the players were more concerned with putting in more baskets. Dynasty took advantage of this play by tightening the defence, closing the gaps for Mojalefa Lemao who became the culprit of aimless runs. Hoop Stars also exhibited the fine zone defence of Dynasty. It was organised in a way that prevented the opponents to maneuver within the three point arc. In the end the experience of Dynasty ensure their hard fought win.

Other results:

Firebirds 30 – 87 Dynasty

Hoop Stars 62 – 32 Mangaung Youth Centre

Khayalami 100 – 26 Tswelopele

Information supplied by Setlogelo Radebe

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KBL – Alumni in a mean mood

Darren — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:28:18 +0000

Information provided by Setlogelo Radebe

Alumni in a mean mood

Alumni continued with their fine form when they tutored CUT Panthers by winning in the first quarter. The game was intense and mistakes counted against the team that committed them. This game was fairly tight but Alumni gained the upper hand by taking the first quarter with 7 points. Vusi Sithole opened the scoresheet and Jabu Cebekhulu, who was fouled out replied for Alumni. Panthers looked confused at this time and Alumni capitalised by making more baskets. After a draw in the second interval, Alumni managed to win a third quarter by a point. Itumeleng Makolomakoe, who has the habit of getting fouled out, was the only player from the two sides who managed a single three pointer. Lack of converting jumpers contributed to the low score produced in this game.

The game was also marred by ugly emotions, resulting in Lefa Khoantle, Panthers manager receiving a technical foul. However the discipline in which both teams presented in the man- to -man defence made it difficult for neither team to score.

It was apparent that the loss of 40 – 35 bruised the ego of Panthers who more or less demanded to play another match “as they are behind schedule”.

Hoop Stars overcame their weakness when they walloped Navalsig Stars 42 – 20. Lefa Vetstock’s boys dominated the entire game and reduced Stars’ Marvin Phungula into a spectator. This strategy decreased the chances of Stars to penetrate the zone of Hoop Stars. But it was Hoop Stars who managed to unlock the oppositions’ zone, making them to man mark. Thus they opened spaces which let crisp movements and passes of Hoop Stars to turn into successful baskets.

Meanwhile Tswelopele hostel registered their first win by beating Mangaung Snippers with a whopping 19 points. Tswelopele lacked concentration in the third quarter and allowed Snippers to come back in the game. Both teams were eager to win the game and started off aggressively. Lindelani Madzhie and the boys were more effective on the floor but failed to convert jumpers which would have seen them count three figures. The final score was 65 – 46.

Other results: Alumni 59 – 32 Navalsig
HoopStars 66-27 Tswelopele
Snippers 26-76 Khayalami

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KBL 09/09/2008 – Alumni begin a Mentorship programme

Fridex — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:58:31 +0000

Alumni begin a Mentorship programme

Team Alumni took on their responsibilities of passing knowledge and experience by beating Hoop Stars 54-50. Hoop Stars had the upper hand by winning the first two quarters and drawing the third. However Alumni emerged victorious by mentoring their opponents on the theme “How to win a game in two minutes?” Alumni opened the scoring with a lay-up by Tshepo Phamotse who was assisted by Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi. Teboho Busakwe immediately made it even with a jumper. With three minutes into the game, Jabu Cebekhulu assisted Likhi with a beautiful back pass. In this early stage of the game, Alumni were disciplined and focused, non verbal communication which exposed their moods on the day. Nevertheless Hoop Stars were too quick and accurate in their jumpers. The led the first quarter by a basket and increased their lead to five points at half time. With the way they played in the third quarter, it was apparent that Alumni wanted to keep the score as tight as possible. Hence it ended even at 13 – 13.
Alumni started the fourth quarter with a lay-up by Likhi who made 20 points in this game. But it was the events in the last two minutes where Alumni took it upon themselves to mentor Hoop Stars on the game of basketball. After their time-out, Hoop Stars’ Mojalefa Lemao made a three but Sechaba Leroala failed to do likewise in a turn over. When Hoop Stars attempted a man-to-man defense, Likhi made a full court assist to Phamotse who made a basket while under the hoop. Then Moruakgomo Keebine assisted Jabu Cebekhulu with a backdoor pass. By this time Hoop Stars where attacking but the zone defense of Alumni was not to be penetrated. Neither could they take any shot. Moeketsi Matima got a backdoor assist from Cebekhulu for a winning basket. The sms that Likhi sent to his players the night before was truly inspirational to their championship mettle. The players only brought their game to their matches.

Dynasty consolidated their position at the top by beating Khayalami 55 – 46. This was one of the best games for Khayalami. They showed positive signs in the game and are poised to reach the Best Four Finals on 18 October.

Results of the rest of the games

Firebirds 52 – 49 Tswelopele
Dynasty 85 – 26 Tswelopele
Firebirds 37- 82 Hoop Stars
Alumni 98- 43 Mangaung Snippers

Information supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe

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KBL 31/08/2008 – Khayalami becomes unstoppable

victor — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 19:24:59 +0000

Khayalami hostel of the University of the Free State continued with their fine form when they beat Hoop Stars 59 – 54 this past weekend. Khayalami had a slow start to their game losing the first quarter 7-12. It was the introduction of the candidate of Rookie of the Year award Papi Radebe which changed the complexion of the game. From going in circles, Khayalami became more organised in their attacks from the beginning of second quarter. They were also helped by Hoop Stars who were in a charity mood. They cost themselves no more than 12 turnovers. They hardly made a successful jumper, mistakes that saw Khayalami leading 26-25 at half time. Hoop Stars came back to the game late in the fourth quarter to decrease the winning score to 5 points.
Dynasty had an easy game against Mangaung Snippers by winning 71-46. It was the second string of Dynasty who opened the score with 5 minutes on the clock. This came from the threats from the bench to substitute the entire first five. But it was number 7, Tshepo Kgosi of the opposition who stole the limelight. Ending the game at 20 points, the young Kgosi would have a bright future in basketball were the Professional Basketball League on progress. It takes watching players like these to realise the atrocities committed by the stagnating pro basketball. The introduction of Motaki Madimabe changed the complexion of the game. Although he came in with a directive to motivate the second team, he was in far many positions to make every basket count.

The rest of the scores are: Dynasty 48 – 44 Hoopstars; Firebirds 25 -21 Mangaung Snippers.

Commentary

The events involving Central University of Technology‘s Panthers provide an interesting insight into the development of basketball in the Mangaung Region. The team competes at the Gauteng Basketball League. The rest of the teams in the KBL barred the Panthers from participating in the KBL claiming that it will be unfair to them. They would perceive themselves to compete under immense pressure by letting Panthers to cover the schedule. It could make sense since there most teams are beginning their second round matches. They are also used to playing at the most two games a day.

However their participation in the league would have assisted in the transfer of skills. It is better to compete regularly with a stronger opposition to build mental strength at tougher competitions. For example, the participation of Navalsig High School makes them a better team compared to their opposition at the high schools. In fact they dominate their peers in the Free State.

Nevertheless there is a lot at stake in the KBL, which offer good opportunities for the winners of the league.

Article supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe

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KBL 23/08/2008 – Soldiering home to a victory

victor — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:36:46 +0000

Khayalami marched on another victory in the KBL by demolishing Tswelopele Hostel with 27 points. This is the second biggest margin by Khayalami is as many weeks. The flagship of University of the Free State basketball must be commended for their gradual improvement. This has come through tremendous efforts of the team manager, Ntlantla Mloyeni to lure talented players to his team. Moreover these players are residing at the hostel. Commenting on their performance, Mloyeni said no one has seen their best yet. This statement must be taken seriously since the team never had time to go practice despite the basketball courts being a stone’s throw from their house. It was Masotja “Soldier” Nkosi who opened the score for Khayalami. This forward is also gaining momentum on his game which has improved. His positioning became the order of the day as he managed to score 16 points to help Khayalami win the game 41-14.

Despite the absence of Mollah Sefotlhelo, Dynasty continued with their unbeaten run by beating Raptors 55-34. The plays that the Dynasty team uses makes them a marvel to watch. They combine their winning ways with the beautiful exhibition of the sport of basketball. It is interesting to note that the quality of their performance is also based on the development plan the team from Thaba Nchu strictly adheres to. They continuously allow young players to practice with them. These youngsters develop an intellect of the sport earlier in their youth in preparation of the future. For them it is not the passion of the game that spurs them. It is the pedigree of the game of basketball.

Information supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe

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KBL 17/08/2008 – The monarch lays down the law

victor — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:10:18 +0000

Dynasty laid down the basketball laws as they demolished Khayalami by 23 points at the match of the Kovsie Basketball League played this past Sunday. The lads from Thaba Nchu displayed the marvel that the game of basketball is. Even the passers-by at the University of the Free State’s outdoor basketball courts took time to watch with awe an art of the plays. This game was dominated by the intricate passes and dynamics of special laws of a team sports. It started at a slow pace whereby the first basket by Thapelo Mochoari was made a minute and half into the game. Masotja Nkosi immediately replied for Khayalami. It was the movements of Dynasty on the court that set apart team effort from individual plays. The crisp passes that complemented the movements even had the opponents becoming spectators. After a half time score of 31-12, Khayalami managed to find their feet at the inspiration of the strong candidate of Rookie of the Year Molifi Tau. He instilled a sense of unity in his team who began to play as a unit. However Dynasty who played wide for free and accurate movement of the ball, continued with their exhibition of basketball at its best. The final score was 54 – 29.

Alumni dominated Tswelopele with fast-break plays to win the game by 71- 34. The score could have been three digits have it not been for the inaccuracy of Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi at the free throw lane. But it was Tshepo “The Man” Phamotse who became the weakest link by missing simple lay-ups. The full hand block he received at the hands of the Tshiamo Kgware indicated the relentless attitude of Tswelopele. But it was the three point shot by Xholani Chuma over “Bixx” that received an overwhelming applause from the crowd. The character of this team must be applauded. It is the second week that the team scored more than 30 points, a much improved performance when compared to last year. Leading by only five baskets, Alumni began the fourth with speed and a spirit of champions.

In a closely contested match, Dynasty came even at 2-2 to beat Alumni 45 – 44. The match was won on mistakes as both teams closed their zones tightly. Leading 31-23 at half time, Dynasty could not make the jump shots in and outside the 3 point arch. Alumni capitalised by narrowing the margin to two baskets at the beginning of fourth quarter. Alumni needed one basket to equalise with 11 seconds remaining when Molehe Sefotlhelo applied the FIBA rules which allow deliberate fouling. Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi narrowed the score by half a basket but failed to covert a ball which was to send the match to overtime.

The dynamics of 3 on 3 streetball were exposed when Firebirds received a beating from Khayalami. The victory was a morale booster for Khayalami which has very good players. A passer-by would think that the game was a practice match for the winners who were very relaxed. Yours truly opened the scoring with a jumper over Masotja Nkosi, an act that did not go down well with Khayalami. In return, they made basket after basket and eventually won 52 – 24 over the masters of half court who struggled on the open court.

Article supplied by Setlogelo Lucas Radebe

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KBL 10/08/2008 – Shocking Defeat of the Champions

Darren — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:16:32 +0000

The champions of the 2007 Kovsie Basketball League suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of Khayalami hostel. Whilst the captain of Alumni, Ikaelelo “Bixx” Likhi could not believe his ears about the loss, his counterpart, Ntlantla Mloyeni reluctantly proclaimed the 58 – 57 win to his teammates.

Alumni have themselves to blame for the loss. It appeared to be a walk in the park for Alumni when the first quarter ended 20 – 6 in their favour. This did not dampen Khayalami’s determination to play good basketball. Bonginkosi “Sky” Nhlangothi controlled the game well, capturing the mindset of players who began to show signs of frustrations. Khayalami won the second quarter and Alumni reclaimed the third quarter. Thinking they have won the game, Alumni relaxed their efforts and Khayalami added pace in their approach. Khayalami scored 15 baskets unchallenged in the last two and half minutes to win by a point.

Tswelopele Hotel gave Dynasty a run for their money in their game. Although they lost the match 36 – 63, Tswelopele showed enthusiasm and a new dimension to the approach of the play. They have bolstered their squad with 5 new players who have settled well in the team. It was the stalwarts who gave the direction for the boys. Mhlanganisi Madlongolwana and Lindelani Madzhie combined well in the new approach of Tswelopele. Nevertheless the experience of Motaki Madimabe on the three point line was to prove to much to handle for Tswelopele.

In the other match, Navalsig High School beat Khayalami 36 – 27. Navalsig were quick to realize that they need pace in order to win the game. Having led the game in all three quarters, Khayalami could not keep up with the speed of the youngsters in the last quarter.

Information supplied by Lucas Radebe

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