By Redson Kandozi
The ABC Blue Gym in Lilongwe was filled with excitement over the weekend as the Women's All Star Basketball Tournament organized by Basketball Association of Malawi, took place on January 27, 2024.
The spotlight shone on the rising star category, where Evess Mtika, a third-year Bachelor of Education in Humanities student at UNILIA-Laws Campus, who was playing for Team Faith in the tournament was recognized as the Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Speaking with Pamtondo Online, Mtika expressed her joy on getting the award,
"It feels like a great achievement having this recognition as MVP, and I am very glad. I actually pushed hard for training and it is paying off right now." she said.
Reflecting on the tournament which saw players from all regions of the country forming several teams, Mtika shared her perspective, saying that it had a great impact on her by playing with talented players from different teams across the country.
Being the first-ever all-star tournament in the country for women's basketball, Mtika highlighted the importance of such events for young girls.
"As a female basketball player, I'm really glad this event took place. It motivates young girls and steers them away from distractions that could ruin their lives. These tournaments need to happen more often for the growth of the sport," she said.
However, on balancing academics and basketball, Mtika emphasized the challenges of handling both commitments.
"Being a student, I balance basketball and my academics. It's hard sometimes, especially during bigger tournaments. You want to make a name out there, but academics have to go first, and basketball has to follow," she stated.
In a remarkable feat, her individual stats for Team Faith in the tournament, showcased scoring competence with an impressive tally of 20 baskets which saw her team in the tournament clinching the first-place position.
However, Esther Phiri, another student from UNILIA Kaning’ina Campus who also participated in the tournament, expressed her concern on the lack of prize money to the winning teams.
“It takes up a player’s willingness to go for games, participate and compete. Money definitely has to be an award because people travel just to compete. Imagine travelling for 6 hours just to get a medal. However, for me, trophies are the best award and I enjoyed the tournament” she said.
Stanley Nkhoma, a male basketball player also emphasized the need for prize money in tournaments as they help to motivate the athletes. And also, being the first time for women’s basketball, the Ministry of sports, BASMAL and companies should come in to support the sport.
The first edition for the Women’s Basketball All Stars tournament was sponsored by Shayona Cement and SDE Consulting.
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