DB Lioness fight back to extend BDL finals series to Game 4

DAR ES SALAAM: IN a thrilling turn of events, the DB Lioness have injected new energy into the 2024 Basketball Dar es Salaam League (BDL) Women’s Finals playoff.

On Tuesday night, they secured a hard-fought 61- 54 victory over defending champions Vijana Queens in Game 3, held at the DB Upanga-B court in Dar es Salaam.

This victory was a crucial response after losing the first two games in the best-of-five series, reigniting the Lioness’ hopes of clinching the title in what has been a fiercely contested league final.

The finals began on December 6, 2024, with the Vijana Queens dominating Game 1, winning 57-36. They extended their lead with another strong performance in Game 2 on December 8, defeating the Lioness 62- 48 and moving just one win away from the championship.

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However, the DB Lioness refused to give up, showing resilience and skill in Game 3. Their victory ensured that the series would continue, with the opportunity to force a Game 4.

BD Technical and Competition Director, Haleluya Kavalambi provided an update yesterday, expressing satisfaction with the league’s progress as it approaches its conclusion.

He confirmed that Game 4 is scheduled for today at 19:00 hrs at the same venue, with the DB Lioness aiming to level the series and push for a decisive Game 5, if necessary, on December 14.

The upcoming games promise high-stakes action, with the DB Lioness battling for survival and the Vijana Queens looking to reclaim their momentum and defend their title.

This year’s women’s league has showcased exceptional performances, beginning with a competitive round-robin stage featuring a record 16 teams. After intense battles, the top eight teams advanced to the quarterfinals, leading to the current semifinals.

The teams vying for a spot in the finals include JKT Stars, Vijana Queens, Don Bosco Lioness and DB Troncatti.

The 2024 BDL season has also delivered exciting basketball action on the men’s side, with JKT emerging as the men’s champions after defeating UDSM Outsiders in a 3-1 series at the Don Bosco Oyster