The action continued at the Varsity Basketball tournament, where the University of Johannesburg made big strides towards securing a place in the semi-final, by beating the Tshwane University of technology 59-28 at the Wits Old Mutual Sports Hall in Johannesburg.
TUT have generally found the tests they’ve faced so far in the competition very challenging, only managing a single victory in six attempts. UJ however have faired well against some stiff competition, which sees them sit at second place on the standings, just behind their crosstown rivals Wits.
On paper and in terms of results so far, UJ were the better side going into the clash. That showed immediately in the game, with the joburgers controlling the contest, hogging the possession of the ball and quickly building up a 15-4 lead ahead of the second quarter. When play resumed, the scale continued to tip in UJ’s favour even though TUT came out a much better side, that certainly contained UJ’s attackers. TUT finished the quarter landing 8 points in the basket, with UJ adding 11 that saw them lead 26-12 at the break.
The other two quarters in the game saw UJ on cruise control, even advancing forward more and defending much high up the court, in an attempt to add more pressure to the crumbling TUT defence. The men from Pretoria could only manage to add 8 points in both quarters, whilst UJ powered on to clinch the game 59-28, with an additional 14 points in the third period and a staggering 19 in fourth. This win now sees UJ with almost both feet in the semifinal as they remain in second spot.
Score
UJ 59-28 TUT
Teams
UJ: 1. Manasse Kabasele, 2. Karabo Likotsi, 3. Gomolemo Mahuma, 8. Yves Mulwisa, 5. Mpumelelo Mahlati, 9. Sikhumbuzo Mthembu, 10. Peace Famudimo, 11. Nqosa Lehloenya, 12. Zett Mutongoza, 13. Trystan Speck, 14. Nathan Baruti, 15. Lance Chikore
TUT: 4. J. Karume, 7. M. Manamela, 9. T. Legoabe, 10. L. Makinta, 11. T. Motshweni, 12. N. Mamabolo, 13. C. Matondo, 14. B. Mola, 17. B. Nguema, 18. K. Morake, 20. U. Mashau, 21. L. Tshikonelo
By S’fiso Nyawo
