Akbar Brothers Ltd. formed a superb all-round performance to get the ’A’ Division title at the 33rd MSBA League Basketball Tournament, defeat reigning champions Fairfirst Insurance 70-60 in an exciting final held on recently.
In spite of a group stage reverse to Fairfirst, a rejuvenated Akbar Brothers side returned for the final with renewed focus, executing a strategic and disciplined game plan with some brilliant passing and defence.
Akbar came in with all guns blazing right from the get go. The first quarter was all Akbar’s that stacked up a 13 to 4 lead.
Fairfirst equestrian a strong fightback in the second quarter, closing the margin, but Akbar’s rhythm secured a 35-28 lead at halftime, a margin they maintained with calm through to the final whistle.
Dasun Mendis led the charge for Akbar’s with 18 points and was named the tournament’s Most Appreciated Player (MVP).
Chenura De Alwis added 17 points to the equal, while Shehan Udayanga posted a valiant 22 points for Fairfirst.
Dimitri Grebe anchored Akbar Brothers with inspired captaincy, with Hiran Wijesooriya leading Fairfirst.
Previously in the tournament Akbar’s overcame Sampath Bank (82-71), Seylan Bank (91-68) David Pieris (110-78) and Seylan Bank in the semi-final (83-60)
The final, detained at the Royal College Indoor Sports Complex, saw a vibrant turnout of spectators as Akbar Brothers underlined their championship DNA with teamwork, resilience, and clinical execution.
Akbar Brothers
Dimitri Grebe (captain), Dasun Mendis, Chenura De Alwis, Randil Henry, Taher Akbarally, Selvam Savarimuttu, Franklyn Morais, Sanketha Jayarathne, Jeewan Priyankera , Praneeth Udumalagala, Ajith Kuruppu (coach), Adrian Gabriel (asst. coach)
Fairfirst Insurance
Hiran Wijesooriya (captain), Shehan Udayanga , Lakshan Kulathunga, Roshan Randima, Arnold Brent, Isuru Perera, Denzil Nicholas, Nimesh Fernando, Keshawa Perera, Charaka Anuhas, Asanga Perera (coach)
Sinhala 
English