6th Men’s Open Basketball Trophy begins in Kohima

KOHIMA — The sixth edition of the Men's Open Basketball Trophy began at Oriental College, Kohima, on Monday with 12 teams competing for the championship title.

Oriental College, Kohima, has been hosting the tournament for the past five years, drawing players from within and outside the state.

Opening the tournament, Nunese Sale, class 1 contractor and CEO of Nune's Construction, urged the players to give their best and showcase their skills and talents. He encouraged them to inspire the younger ones.

He said that sports have the unique ability to unite people as they transcend boundaries and bring unity and diversity, and he called for working together to create opportunities through the tournament.

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Dr. Watinaro Longkumer, principal of Oriental College, said the tournament provides a platform for talented and professional players to showcase their abilities and inspire aspiring athletes.

She stated that one of the missions and objectives behind organising the tournament is to address some of the pressing concerns among youths today, including depression, anxiety, unhealthy lifestyles such as gaming addiction, substance use and abuse, and loss of focus in life, by channelling them into more disciplined and healthy pursuits such as sports.

She further added that basketball is more than just a game — it is a celebration of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. “It teaches to rise after every fall, to trust in teammates, and to push beyond the limits,” she said.

The 12 participating teams are Taurus, ABC (B), ABC (A), Orca, Arrow Farm, Fernwood, Highlanders, Netters, TMB, OCK, Horsemen, and Basic Ballers. The tournament will culminate on October 1.