Pune Panthers were a determined lot and staved off a spirited challenge from Nagpur Blasters to snatch a tense 47-46 victory in an absorbing girl’s Group-B match of the Basketball Network Academy (BNA) organised Junior Basketball League 2022 for the ageasFEDERAL Trophy, and played at the Dr. Muthukumar Basketball Court, Indian Gymkhana, Matunga on Saturday evening. The tournament is being conducted under the auspices of the Maharashtra State Basketball Association & in association with Indian Gymkhana. The Pune girls dominated the first two sessions and grabbed a 24-17 lead at the end of the first half.
In another Girl’s Group-A match, Palghar Tigers had things much their own way against Nashik Lions and coasted to a comfortable 55-27 win after enjoying a solid 25-14 half-time advantage.
Rianne Pereira 16 points, Pranja Dhumka 14 points, and Anusha Rao 10 points ensured Pune Panthers snatch tight win while Nagpur Blasters’ produced a late charge with ace shooter Muskaan Ajmani leading the fight with a top score of 20 points while Arya Bhalekar and Khushi Solanki scored 10 and 8 points respectively, but they were pipped at the post and ended on a losing note.
Results – Girls – Group-A: Palghar Tigers (Rutuja Nalawade 15, Bhakti Lahamge 12) beat Nashik Lions (Khushi Bhalekar 11, Karya Pagare 8) – 55-27 (half-time: 25-14).
Group-B: Pune Panthers (Rianne Pereira 16, Pranja Dhumka 14, Anusha Rao 10) beat Nagpur Blasters (Muskaan Ajmani 20, Arya Bhalekar 10, Khushi Solanki 8) – 47-46 (half-time: 24-17).