Flames queens claim MBL title as men’s final goes to game 3
DAR ES SALAAM: FLAMES Queens were crowned champions of the 2025 Mbeya Basketball League (MBL) after defeating Songwe Queens 48–34 in Game 2 of the women’s finals over the weekend, sealing the best-of-three series 2–0.
Joginda Msai, General Secretary of the Mbeya Regional Basketball Association (MRBA) and Executive Director of the MBL, told the ‘Daily News’ that the women’s final ended well at the Mbeya Youth Centre basketball court, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of fans and supporters.
He said the defending champions displayed dominance throughout the game, maintaining control on both ends of the court and never allowing Songwe Queens to find rhythm.
The victory marks a back-to-back title for the Flames Queens, who went undefeated in the postseason.
Msai stressed that in the men’s category, the championship remains undecided.
Tiger Rangers kept their hopes alive with a 66–58 win over Mbeya Flames, levelling the series at 1–1.
The Rangers bounced back from a Game 1 loss with a more disciplined performance, capitalising on turnovers and fast breaks to close out the match.
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The result sets up a winner-takes-all Game 3, scheduled for September 14, 2025, at the Mbeya Youth Centre. Tip-off is set for 4:30pm.
The day will also feature a curtain-raiser between Flames Legends and Tiger Legends, as fans prepare for what promises to be a dramatic end to the MBL 2025 season.
Both teams head into the decider with one win each, and momentum on the line. For both teams, it is a chance to lift the title left vacant by defending champions Iyunga Crescents.
Msai said the 2025 season features seven men’s teams, including Iyunga Crescents (defending champions), Mbeya Flames, Mbalizi Street, Tiger, VETA Wamoja, Outsiders and MUST (Mbeya University of Science & Technology).
The women’s Category comprises three teams: Mbeya Flames Queens, Tiger Queens and Songwe Queens.
Msai extended his gratitude to the league’s sponsors, which include YAS (main sponsor) and co-sponsors Pro Builders Co Ltd, Ramani Investment Co Ltd and Tanzania China Trade Tourism Development.
