DataCo claim inaugural corporate hoops title

DataCo PNG are the premiers of the maiden corporate hoops competition after an epic 49-45 victory over PNG Ports last night.

The mix competition grand final staged at Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Center between the top-2 sides didn’t thwart as the match ended in fashion with DataCo stealing the show by 3 points.

DataCo captain Den David said playing a stronger opponent and coming out victors was an achievement for the team, competing for first time in corporate basketball.

“We had a good game against the Ports who had really good players,” David said.

“They had some current PNG rep players who played for them, but we were able to pick up a very good challenge and come out winners.”

The champion side had everything under their wings from the off set, which laid down the winning pace as they dominated in attack and defence.

DataCo were up 14-6 in the first break of the four-quarter game but a quick turnaround from PNG Ports saw the scores level at 21-21 in the second frame.

The corporate hoops runners-up led by skipper Norbert Kava and PNG men’s basketball rep Moses Lune marched into the court with cruise control in third quarter, keeping close proximity to DataCo.

However, David’s team remained composed and narrowly led the scoreboard into the final 10 minutes of the game with a 34-33 gesture.

PNG Ports had several opportunities to send the match into an exciting finish but miss throws crippled their winning chances as DataCo were steadfast in defense to claim the trophy with a commanding 49-45 victory.

“In overall, I think we had fun. We played from the first game up until the grand final. So long as we enjoy it and team effort,” skipper Kava from the losing team said.

“At the end of the day, one has to win, one has to lose. We are planning that we will come back a bit stronger next year and hopefully, we can walk away with a win.”

The corporate hoops are an initiative of Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea to promote healthy workforce and networking amongst different organizations.

BFPNG president David Peter said the competition would be expanded next year following a successful 2024 season.