RIYADH: An inspiring display by Habib Pundoma and Mahid Tago helped Shakba get the better of Malaigians 94-87 to win the inaugural best-of-three series finals, Inter Maranao Basketball Tournament, organized by the Ranao Sports Commission in Riyadh and played at the Al Yamamah Hotel sports complex.
Ten teams from various provinces of Lanao in the Philippines took part in this 11-week tourney, which was witnessed by cheering Maranaos.
Most of the awards were bagged by the Shakba team. The Best Guard and tournament’s MVP award went to Mahid Tago while Habib Pundoma bagged the Best Center trophy.
Shakba’s Ivan Sarip and Jeffrey Sultan were declared Best Coach and Manager respectively. Tireless Ateel Natangcop of Malaigians got the 2nd Best Guard award. The first runner-up team trophy went to Jabber Paudac and Peping Calauto.
Diwan Lakers, coached by Abdulhalim Bantuas, were the second runner-up and Maida Marawi took the third runner-up, coached by Paul and Al Mapandi.
The RSC management, fans, team supporters and the public had been patiently enjoying every Friday games despite the severity of the chilling winter for more than two months that made this event a successful one.
Official from the Philippine embassy represented by attache Muamar Ayo and Aleem Cosain attended the championship game.
Diwan lakers were was also voted for the Sportsmanship award with veteran Jalal Lao paid off his effort for the 1st best forward award while Maida Marawi being the 3rd runner-up was on the other hand unanimously chosen for the Best in Uniform team with Jun Bacarat got the 2nd best forward award.
We salute the Filipino community for their support and cooperation under the leadership of our RSC Chairman Allan Macabangkit, Vice Chairman Dr. Sambo Bantuas, Secretary General Ding Capal, Tournament Commissioner Faisal Pilingan, Asst. Commissioner Omar Mapandi, Peacekeepers Michael Macaraob and Mac Datu Dacula, Consultant Engr. Dante Pangcopga and to all RSC core group, Team coaches and managers with special mention to Abdul Gaffar Dimalutang of the ANC Telemoney and the International Philippine School in Riyadh (IPSR) for their sponsorship.
