Panaji: Loyola, Margao and Don Bosco Sports Academy, Fatorda emerged as the boys’ and girls’ champions respectively at the Group Priority State Sub Junior Basketball Championship 2026, held at the Don Bosco Oratory in Panjim.
In the boys’ final, Loyola produced a commanding performance to defeat fellow Margao team Libania Cagers 44-18. Loyola took control from the opening quarter, leading 14-7 before extending their advantage with a 12-3 second quarter. They continued their dominance after the break, winning the third quarter 11-4 and the final period 7-4.
Adriel Rosario was the standout performer for Loyola, finishing with 19 points, while Kurt D’Silva contributed 13. Joshua Cardoso scored eight points and Deshawn Cardoso added six for Libania Cagers. Rosario was named the Boys’ Final MVP for his impressive display.
The girls’ final saw Don Bosco Sports Academy, Fatorda overcome an early setback to defeat St. Mary’s Girls High School, Mapusa 23-15. St. Mary’s led 8-6 after the opening quarter, but Don Bosco responded strongly in the second period, keeping their opponents scoreless while scoring eight points.
Don Bosco maintained their momentum by taking the third quarter 5-2. St. Mary’s won the final period 5-4, but DBSA had already built a decisive lead. Eva Mascarenhas led the winners with 12 points, while Jaezel Barreto scored seven. Ancila Fernandes top-scored for St. Mary’s with seven points, followed by Aneley Lobo with four. Mascarenhas was named the Girls’ Final MVP.
The championship finals were attended by senior representatives from Don Bosco, the Basketball Federation of India and the Goa Basketball Association. Former basketball players Jack Ajit Sukhija and Thereza Fernandes were also felicitated for their sporting achievements and contributions to society.