28 May 2024

Botswana Basketball League (BBL) is on recess with BDF V at the summit of the log standing with 18 points having played 10 games so far.

Though levelled on points with Phins Dolphins, BDF V have been seeded top of the log owing to a better defensive play as they only conceded 601 baskets against Dolphin’s 642.

Botswana Basketball Association-technical director, Shalloh Matsetse said the recess, which also coincided with winter season, had been strategically planned to address several important operational and logistical matters to ensure smooth continuation and high league standards.

“Playing games at night during winter can compromise quality of play due to cold temperatures and therefore taking this break would ensure that when play resumes, it does so under optimal conditions, maintaining the high standards of performance and safety of all participants,” Matsetse said.

He also said one of the key reasons for mid-season break would be for transfer window compliance. “The halfway break period is essential for teams to make strategic adjustments and strengthen their squads, contributing to a more competitive and dynamic second half of the season, thus allows for the necessary player transfer window as stipulated in the BBA Bye-laws,” he said.

Additionally, Matsetse indicated that the association would use the break to resolve outstanding issues, including finalising payments for the second half of the season, updating team lists and processing player transfers.

“The association would take this time to refine our fixtures and ensure that all logistics are in place for a seamless resumption of the league,” he said.  He further said the association would during the break open the 3x3 season events, which would be designed to keep players engaged and maintain their competitive edge while the main league was on hold.

The 3x3 season, he said would also provide a platform to showcase and develop talent in this fast-paced format of basketball.

He said the second half of the league was tentatively scheduled to resume in July, with games played during the day to avoid challenges posed by winter night games. Ends