Arunachal basketball tournament tips off in Naharlagun; call for permanent indoor stadium

The second State Level Basketball Tournament began on November 12 at Naharlagun with the participation of over 200 players, coaches and team managers from 12 districts across Arunachal Pradesh.

 

Chairman of the Sports Authority of Arunachal, John Neelam, inaugurated the five-day event as the chief guest. During his address, he assured that he would take up the proposal for a permanent indoor basketball stadium with the state government, stressing the need for better sports infrastructure.

 

“Everything can be achieved with hard work, sincerity, devotion and dedication,” Neelam said, urging young players to aim high and become both “good sportspersons and good human beings.” He commended the Arunachal Pradesh Basketball Association (APBA) for hosting the tournament and pledged his full support for the promotion of basketball in the state.

 

The event, organised by the APBA, drew a large crowd of youths from the capital complex, reflecting the growing interest in the sport despite limited facilities.

 

Organising Chairman Dikto Kare told India Today NE that more than 20 teams — both boys and girls — from 10 districts are competing in the tournament. “We don’t have coaches, courts or infrastructure for basketball, but our athletes remain passionate about this less popular game in Arunachal,” he said. Kare also credited Chief Patron Pema Norbu Thongchi for his continued guidance and support.

 

The tournament will continue for five days, celebrating both competition and the spirit of basketball in the state.