DAR ES SALAAM: JKT have claimed the men’s title in the 2024 Dar es Salaam Basketball League (DBL), defeating UDSM Outsiders 3-1 in a thrilling series at the Don Bosco Oysterbay court in Dar es Salaam.
JKT’s triumph fills the void left by the then defending champions, Dar City, who fell short in the semi-finals this season.
However, Dar City redeemed themselves by clinching the National Basketball League (NBL) title in Dodoma last month, earning the prestigious opportunity to represent Tanzania at the Basketball Africa League (BAL) next year.
This year’s DBL men’s category showcased fierce competition among 16 teams, delivering four electrifying games in the finals. Game 1 was held on November 3; JKT edged past UDSM Outsiders 69-62 before the league was temporarily paused to allow the city’s top teams to compete in the NBL in Dodoma.
However, Game 2 held after the league resumed on November 30, saw UDSM bouncing back to win 66-55. In Game 3, JKT retaliated with a strong performance on December 2, securing a 68-59 victory before two days later in Game 4 sealed the title with a 70-65 victory to close the series.
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Despite finishing third in the group stages, JKT displayed remarkable dominance in the playoffs, defeating the secondplaced UDSM Outsiders and overcoming significant challenges. Group stage leaders Dar City, while missing out on the DBL title, proved their strength in the broader competition at the NBL.
Other teams at this year men’s battle were Savio, Mchenga Star, ABC, Vijana City Bulls and Srelio rounding out the eight men’s playoff teams advanced to knock out stages. Others are Don Bosco Oratory, Pazi, Kampala University, Ukonga Kings, Mgulani JKT, Jogoo, Chui and Crows.
The women’s category finals are underway, featuring a best-of-five series between defending champions Vijana Queens and DB Lioness.
The first game tipped off last evening at the DB Upanga-B Court, with Game 2 scheduled for tomorrow at 7:00 PM. Game 3 will take place on December 10, followed by potential Game 4 and Game 5 on December 12 and December 14, respectively.
Haleluya Kavalambi, the BD Technical and Competition Director emphasised the league’s commitment to fostering basket ball talent and delivering high-quality competition. The DBL continues to be a cornerstone of Tanzanian basketball, captivating fans and players alike.
