The 38th National Games commenced with exhilarating basketball 5×5 league matches on Day 1, hosted at Bhagirathi Hall, MPSC Rajat Jayanti Khel Parishad. Teams from across the country competed fiercely on Day 1, showcasing their talent and determination.
Men’s Matches
* In Group A, Tamil Nadu and Services compete with each other in an intense match on Court 2. The game witnessed an exciting finish as Tamil Nadu secured the win with a late surge by 76-69. Tamil Nadu’s strategy in the final moments turned the match in their favour.
* Tamil Nadu’s top scorer was Lokeshwaran Mohan with 16 goals, while Sahil led the Services team with 22 goals.
“It was the first match, so there was a bit of pressure, especially with the scores tied. However, we’ll play stronger in the upcoming matches. Our team has solid bench strength, and every player is adaptable. The experience in Uttarakhand has been fantastic, and I thank the Uttarakhand Government and National Games Committee for the commendable management and facilities,” said Jeeva, captain of the Tamil Nadu Men’s Basketball 5×5 team.
• Meanwhile, in Group B, Delhi faced off against Madhya Pradesh in a high-energy game on Court 1. Delhi’s superior coordination and scoring power helped them dominate the match against Madhya Pradesh by 116- 61.
* Delhi captain Vishesh Bhriguvanshi emerged as the top scorer with 17 goals, while Madhya Pradesh’s Anmol Sharma led his team with 15 goals.
Delhi Men’s Basketball 5×5 team captain Vishesh Bhriguvanshi expressed his joy at the victory and praised Uttarakhand for hosting the National Games. He said, “It feels great to win and represent Delhi. The organization, from accommodations to practice sessions, has been excellent. Playing amidst nature has been a wonderful experience. The Green Games initiative is commendable. My message to athletes is simple: enjoy the environment and give your best.”
Women’s Matches
* In Group A, the host team Uttarakhand faced Punjab in an intense match on Court 2, with Punjab securing a decisive win, 96-54.
* Top scorer for Punjab was Komalpreet Kaur with 28 goals, while Uttarakhand’s Anju scored 27 goals.
Sharing her excitement, Punjab’s captain, Preeti said, “It feels great to win. This was a team effort, and I’m lucky to have such a supportive group. As captain, there’s no pressure when the team performs together. The arrangements and atmosphere in Dehradun have been wonderful so far.” She also praised the event’s eco-conscious theme, adding, “It’s a great initiative that will inspire citizens to be more responsible towards nature.”
* In Group B, Chhattisgarh competed with Delhi. Delhi narrowly defeated Chhattisgarh in a thrilling match on Court 2, winning 76-75.
* Delhi’s Simran Kour was the top scorer with 23 goals, while D. Kirti led Chhattisgarh with the highest for her team.
Delhi’s captain, Preeti Kumari, shared her joy, saying, “Winning feels incredible, especially as a captain, and a mother. I’m grateful for the support of my team and family. To all women out there, if I can be here as a mother, living my dreams, you can also achieve your dreams.” She expressed optimism for upcoming matches and encouraged women to chase their goals.
The basketball 5×5 matches promise more excitement in the days ahead as teams continue to battle for glory. Stay tuned for updates on the results and key highlights from the 38th National Games.
