Western Basketball Association League Opener

Western Basketball Association League Opener: Action, Drama, and a League Set for Greatness
 

Takoradi, Ghana – Basketball fever gripped the Western Region as the Western Basketball Association (WBA) tipped off its 2024/2025 season with thrilling matchups at the Takoradi Mall on Sunday, December 1. Fans, players, and stakeholders united to celebrate the region’s passion for basketball, making the event a landmark moment for the sport.

The Takoradi Mall, generously providing the venue rent-free, set the stage for an unforgettable day, while the National Sports Authority contributed basketball goal posts, reflecting the collaborative spirit propelling the league forward.

Game 1: Viking Basketball Academy vs. Lighters Basketball

The first game of the season was a showcase of intense competition and stellar performances, with Viking Basketball Academy narrowly defeating Lighters Basketball 59-55 in a pulsating encounter.

Leading the charge for Vikings was their star player, Chris Appiah (#1), who delivered a commanding performance with 19 points and 4 rebounds. He was well-supported by teammates Osei, who added 10 points, and Cobbinah, who contributed 8 rebounds, showcasing Vikings’ depth and determination.

Lighters Basketball didn’t back down, with Samuel Appiah turning in a fantastic game of 18 points and 8 rebounds. Moses Arthur made his presence felt on the boards, hauling in 11 rebounds, while Yunas Nyame (#34) shone with 15 points and 9 rebounds, keeping Lighters in the fight until the final whistle.

The electric atmosphere at Takoradi Mall fueled both teams, with fans roaring for every play. This game set the bar high for the season, promising more thrilling action in the weeks ahead.

Game 2: TTU Oilers vs. EFF-ESS Academy

The second game of the day featured TTU Oilers taking on EFF-ESS Academy in a matchup filled with energy and excitement. The game was suspended with 4:06 remaining in the third quarter due to lighting issues, with TTU leading 41-28.

TTU Oilers displayed their strength and skill early, led by standout performances from Prince Mawutor, Wadood Mohammed, Sergio Adams, and Derrick Otu. Their teamwork and offensive efficiency were key to establishing the lead before the game was halted.

EFF-ESS Academy countered with flashes of brilliance, particularly from Gabby Asare, Hamza Osmanu, and their floor general, Farowk Cudjoe. Rookie Justice Dwomoh, fresh from their D-League Academy, also made an impression in his debut, demonstrating promise for the future.

Fans eagerly await the continuation of this game, scheduled for Sunday, December 8, at 2:00 PM, where both teams will look to finish strong.

Major Updates: Eye Red Joins the League

 

In a dramatic turn of events, Ahanta Whales withdrew from the competition just before the season began. Fortunately, the new team Eye Red stepped in to fill the gap, ensuring the league retains its seven-team format. Eye Red’s entry adds fresh excitement and talent, with fans eager to see how they fare in their debut against Oilcity Kings.

The revised league structure means each team will play six games per round, maintaining the balanced competition central to the WBA’s mission.

Fixture Adjustments for Sunday, December 8, 2024

An exciting triple-header awaits fans this weekend:

• 2:00 PM: TTU Oilers vs. EFF-ESS Academy (completion of the suspended game)
• 3:00 PM: Oilcity Kings vs. Eye Red
• 4:30 PM: Elite Warriors vs. Vikings Academy

Spotlight on the Teams

• Viking Basketball Academy: Vikings opened their season strong, with seasoned star Chris Appiah leading the charge. Key contributions from Osei and Cobbinah underscore the team’s balance. Their clash with Elite Warriors will test their consistency as they aim to establish early dominance.
• Lighters Basketball: Despite their loss, Lighters showed their depth, with standout performances from Samuel Appiah and Moses Arthur, complemented by the ever-reliable Yunas Nyame. Expect them to bounce back stronger.
• TTU Oilers: Boasting a lineup of heavy hitters like Prince, Wadood, Sergio, and Derrick, the Oilers are poised to make a statement. Their game against EFF-ESS will set the tone for their season.
• EFF-ESS Academy: Led by Asare, Osmanu, and Cudjoe, with rookie Dwomoh adding youthful energy, EFF-ESS has the talent to contend. Watch for them to rally in their resumed game.
• Eye Red: Making their debut, Eye Red brings intrigue and ambition to the league. Their matchup against Oilcity Kings will be a must-watch event.
• Oilcity Kings: Armed with new signings, the Kings look to solidify themselves as contenders. Their game against Eye Red offers a perfect opportunity to assert their presence.
• Elite Warriors: The Warriors, another new team in the league, are eager to show they belong. Their face-off with Vikings will reveal their potential early on.

A Call for Sponsors and Partners

The WBA is thriving on passion and dedication, but the support of sponsors and partners is vital to sustaining and scaling this success. Businesses have a chance to:

• Gain branding exposure at marquee events.
• Support youth development initiatives and community engagement programs.
• Enhance the basketball experience for fans and players alike.

Be part of the movement shaping the future of basketball in the Western Region.

What’s Next?

The WBA opener showcased the league’s potential, with thrilling games and intense competition setting the stage for an unforgettable season. Join us on Sunday, December 8, for the continuation of TTU Oilers vs. EFF-ESS Academy and two additional exciting matchups. Let’s make basketball the heartbeat of the Western Region!

Game Results:

• Game 1: Viking Basketball Academy 59 – 55 Lighters Basketball
  • Top Performers:
    • Chris Appiah (#1, Viking Basketball Academy): 19 points, 4 rebounds
    • Osei (Viking Basketball Academy): 10 points
    • Cobbinah (Viking Basketball Academy): 8 rebounds
    • Samuel Appiah (Lighters Basketball): 18 points, 8 rebounds
    • Moses Arthur (Lighters Basketball): 11 rebounds
    • Yunas Nyame (#34, Lighters Basketball): 15 points, 9 rebounds
• Game 2: TTU Oilers 41 – 28 EFF-ESS Academy (to resume Dec 8, 2024, at 2:00 PM)

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