Action in the 2013 BD Basketball District King League is reaching new heights as the Brian "Bash" Brewley led organisation looks to improve on the 2012 edition. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

District 3 beat District 7, 26-20 and was led by Akeem Nibbs, who finished with 6 points and 3 steals. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

Gianni Maduro also scored 6 points for District 3 and added a rebound and a steal to his afternoon's work. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

At half time, District 3 were ahead by 5 points at 12-7 but District 7 outscored their opponents in the 3^rd quarter to trail by just one at 16-15. However, Akeem Nibbs started to control the court during the 4^th and with Gianni Maduro scoring some crucial points, along with Rolando Rogers dominating on the rebounds, District 3 put double digits on the board to run out worthy winners at 26-20.

Nibbs and Maduro finished with 6 points each, Nibbs added 3 steals and Rogers picked up 9 rebounds to go with his 4 points, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

For District 7 Akeem Bradshaw finished with 7 points and 5 rebounds and Glenal Layne had 6 points with 2 rebounds.

This year's league is sponsored by One Mart Superstore, the Honourable Mark H. Vanterpool and the Hon. Myron V. Walwyn. As always, it has the support of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports and is sanctioned by the BVI Basketball Federation.

The District King League follows on from the highly successful Inter Primary School League and is yet another feather in the cap of the Organisers led by Brian “Bash” Brewley, Sharlene Hill, Rhennie Phipps and Carolann.

As “Bash” explained, “The idea behind BD Basketball is to encourage youths to get involved in the sport of Basketball. The principles of discipline and respect for each other, their team mates, the coaches and the opposition are also an important part of what we do.”

For many of the players, it is their first experience in an organised league environment and the officials are quick to jump on any infractions both on and off the court.

The Association also teaches the basics of the game and actively encourages aspects of team work and social interaction.

However, one of the biggest battles they face is getting parents to watch the games and support their children. At the conclusion of the Inter Primary League, Rhennie Phipps commented that the final was such a great game that it was a pity that more parents hadn’t been there to see it.

Judging by the first two sets of matches in this year’s District King League, the Association still has to overcome that hurdle but the early signs are encouraging.

Boys and Girls play in 3 different age group divisions, 10 and under, 11 to 13 and 14 to 16, including all 9 districts. The matches are held after school and on weekends at various locations throughout the Territory with the finals scheduled for the Multi Purpose Sports Complex.

The defending Champions from 2012 are District 9, who won the 10 and under  and 14 to 16 divisions and District 4, who won the U13 division.

Upcoming schedule: