Momentum’s JoVaughn N. Cameron being double teamed by Bayside Blazers’ Mikey S. Joseph, left, and Eustace C. Freeman during an encounter in the 2018 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed League. Bayside Blazers will begin the defense of their title against Pure Playaz on August 24, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters/File

The 2019 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed National Basketball League tips off at the Save the Seed Energy Center in Duff’s Bottom, Tortola, on August 24, 2019. Photo: VINO/File

Defending champions Bayside Blazers will come up against the Ray D. Victor-led Pure Playaz in opening night action of the 2019 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed National Basketball on August 24, 2019. Photo: VINO/File

Steve E. Parillon (with ball) of Splash Brothers tries to evade his marker while taking the ball up court during a game in the Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed League in 2018. Photo: Paul A. Hewlett aka 'Paul on the Ball'

The 2019 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed National Basketball League, which tips off on August 24, 2019, is expected to be another keenly contested affair. Photo: Paul A. Hewlett aka ‘Paul on the Ball’

During the Opening Ceremony of the Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed League on August 24, 2019, remarks will be given by the two League Founders/Directors, Hon Julian Fraser RA, Representative for the Third District, right, and Bishop John I. Cline, left, of the New Life Baptist Church and founder of the Save the Seed Energy Center. Photo: VINO/File

The matchup is one of two planned for the evening, following the opening ceremony at 6:00 pm. The first game, at 7:30 pm, is between junior teams Bayside Blazers and Willful Skillful.

Pure Playaz, who retained their draft pick and talisman Ray D. Victor, will no doubt be looking to spring an early upset against the two-time champions Bayside Blazers (2014 & 2018 winners).

Coincidentally, Victor has already won a championship with West Gunners but is now seeking to inspire another team to the coveted championship.

There are 17 teams in the league this year, the 7^th edition, with 7 junior and 10 senior squads.

Players who participated last year will also receive trophies in different categories and 2017-2018 Championship team Bayside Blazers will be awarded their Championship rings at the opening ceremony on Saturday.

Remarks will be given by the two League Founders/Directors, Hon Julian Fraser RA, Representative for the Third District and Bishop John I. Cline of the New Life Baptist Church and founder of the Save the Seed Energy Center.

Fines for missing opening ceremony

According to a press release from the League Committee on August 20, 2019, all teams are expected to be present for the opening ceremony and roll call and both junior and senior teams must have at least five players for the roll call of teams and should wear uniform tops.

“Teams who fail to make the roll call will be fined and must pay their fine before playing their first game,” the press release stated.

Cost per game nights will be $5.00 adults and $3.00 children under 12 years of age.

The 2019 Hon Julian Fraser Save the Seed League is sponsored by Hon Julian Fraser RA; Save the Seed Energy Center and National Bank of the Virgin Islands.

Please see schedule below:

Saturday August 24, 2019

7:30 PM- Jr Bayside Blazers vs Willful Skillful (Jr Div)

9:00 PM- Sr Bayside Blazers vs Pure Playaz

Sunday August 25, 2019

5:00 PM- High Speed vs East Cavaliers (Jr Div)

6:30 PM- DA 3Rd vs Medics

8:00 PM- Momentum vs Splash Brothers

Friday August 30, 2019

6:30 PM- Medics vs 79

8:00 PM- Young Empire vs DA 3Rd

9:30 PM- Nex vs Splash Brothers

Saturday August 31, 2019

5:00 PM- East Cavaliers vs Willful Skillful (Jr Div)

6:30 PM- Top Guns vs Shooting Stars

8:00 PM- Pure Playaz vs Skillful Ballers

9:30 PM- Sr Bayside Blazers vs Momentum

Sunday September 1, 2019

5:00 PM- Jr Bayside Blazers vs Young Starz (Jr Div)

6:30 PM- Nex vs Medics

8:00 PM- DA 3RD vs 79

 Friday, September 6, 2019

6:30 PM- Splash Brothers vs Young Empire

8:00 PM- Skillful Ballers vs 79

9:30 PM- Sr Bayside Blazers vs DA 3RD 

Saturday, September 7, 2019

5:00 PM East Cavaliers vs Shooting Stars (Jr Div)

6:30 PM- Willful Skillful vs Top Guns (Jr Div)

8:00 PM- Momentum vs Medics

9:30 PM- Nex vs Pure Playaz

Sunday, September 8, 2019

5:00 PM- High Speed vs Young Starz (Jr Div)

6:30 PM- Sr Bayside Blazers vs 79

8:00 PM- Skillful Ballers vs Splash Brothers

Friday, September 13, 2019

6:30 PM- Medics vs Pure Playaz

8:00 PM- Young Empire vs Sr Bayside Blazers

9:30 PM- Nex vs Momentum