1st ever Mahindra NBA Challenge National Championship concludes in Delhi

The best performing-basketball teams form the Mahindra NBA Challenge tournaments across the country were brought together to the capital for the first-ever Mahindra NBA Challenge National Championship from October 4-7, at the Thyagraj Stadium in New Delhi. With teams from Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, and Punjab invited, competitions were held in the Senior Men, Senior Women, under-18 boys, and under-18 girls sections. Kerala (Men), Delhi (Women), Punjab (U18 Boys), and Karnataka (U18 Girls) won the Finals in their respective competitions on Sunday.

The day begun with the under 18 Boys final between Punjab and Karnataka. After a close start, the Punjab side came into their own as they slowly began to build a strong lead against Karnataka. The match ended with a final score of 107–69 and Punjab taking the title.

The under-18 Girls finals between Karnataka and Kerala saw a fight till the end as Karnataka - playing some strong defense - came out victorious 59–43.

Kerala's Men came out on top with a convincing victory over Karnataka 75-53. In the Senior Women's division, Delhi beat Kerala after a close game 50-45.

Winners

Men: Kerala

Women: Delhi

U18 Boys: Punjab

U18 Girls: Karnataka

Tournament MVPs

Men: Manoj R (Kerala)

Women: Prashanti Singh (Delhi)

U18 Boys: Palpreet Singh Brar (Punjab)

U18 Girls: Roshini Rosa John (Karnataka)

Three-time NBA Champion Luc Longley was present throughout the event to interact with players and handed over the winning team their trophies. The Most Valuable Players (Men and Women) in both the Senior and Junior divisions will win special awards from the tournament's sponsors.