Two-time defending champions Colts, along with Victory Valley Royals, Ravens and Eagles all won their group matches when the fifth Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) ‘Road to Mecca’ Club Championship, commenced Saturday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue.
Colts bullied Half Mile Bulls 99-50 while last year’s losing finalist Victory Valley Royals downed Amelia’s Ward Jets 78-61.
Meanwhile, Ravens overcame Plaisance Guardians 65-57 while newcomers Eagles soared past Kobras 63-51.
The tournament continues on Wednesday at the same venue with another four matches.
The competing teams have been divided into two groups of six with the group winners and runners-up advancing to the semi-final round.
Group-1 features two time defending champion Colts, Half Mile Bulls [Linden], Plaisance Guardians, Retrieve Raiders [Linden], Ravens and the lone Berbice representative (Winner between Canje Knights and Hopetown Steelers).
Group-2 consists of Victory Valley Royals [Linden], Nets, Pacesetters, Amelia’s Ward Jets [Linden], Eagles and Kobras.
The other playing dates are Friday, Saturday, Sunday, April 20th and 21st with the semifinals April 22nd and the grand finale on April 28th.
Winner of the event will pocket $600,000 and a trophy while the runners-up will receive $400,000 and a trophy. The third place finisher will receive $300,000 and a trophy.
On the individual side, $200,000 will awarded to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) while $100,000 each will be awarded to the individuals that secure the Most Points, Most Rebounds and Most Improved Player accolades respectively.
