2013 Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament to tip off on April 14

One of India’s premier basketball competitions – the Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament (RMBT) – is set to be launched again for this year’s edition at the Indian Gymkhana in Mathunga, Mumbai from April 14-21. The 28th edition of the tournament will feature 11 of India’s top state and club teams participating in the senior category for Men and Women combined. In addition, a Youth (U21) Development tournament featuring teams from Maharashtra will begin on April 12.

The RMBT is one of the most prestigious basketball tournaments in the country. It started off back in the 1960s as a small scale competition between the local teams. In the 70s, it mushroomed into an all India tournament. While it was discontinued for a few years between 1993-2005, it was revived in 2006 and has since firmly established itself as one of the top competitions for Indian basketball players and fans.

In the last edition of the championship, Western Railway (Men) and Southern Railway (Women) emerged as champions. Many of India’s top players are currently participating for their states and units in the National 3x3 Basketball Championship in New Delhi, and they will head straight to Mumbai for the Ramu Memorial trophy after the Delhi tournament ends on April 11th.

Western Railway and Southern Railway will both be back to defend their trophies. Hosts Maharashtra is also fielding teams in both Men’s and Women’s categories. The teams participating in the tournament this year are:

Women: Southern Railway, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra

Men

Pool A: ONGC, Punjab, RCF – Kapurthala, Karnataka.
Pool B: IOB Chennai, Western Railway, Maharashtra, Air Force.

In addition, here are the eight Maharashtra club teams taking part in the Youth (U21) Men’s Tournament:

Pool A: Savio Club, Mastan YMCA, Fr. Agnel’s.
Pool B: Indian Gymkhana, NNH, Ghatkopar YMCA.

Although dates are yet to be confirmed, a Dunk Contest and a Three-Point Shooting Competition will be held at the event on April 19-20. It was also recently announced that all games of the tournament will be streamed live on YouTube on the channel: RMBT Basketball. Check updates on the tournament's Facebook page closer to the tip off for more updates.

Stay updated with all the information regarding this tournament via it's official website.