The second annual Ephraim Mohlakane U14 Basketball Tournament was an overwhelming success and a celebration of youth basketball, school sport and community.

Hosted at St Benedict’s College in Bedfordview from September 18 to 20, head of marketing, communications and admissions Mpumi Motsabi said they were extremely proud to welcome 19 schools from across the region.

This created a vibrant and competitive environment for young players to showcase their talent.

Head of sport Andrew Barnes noted that the tournament is “more than just a sports event; it is a celebration of youth, community and the enduring values that Ephraim Mohlakane stood for.”

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The Bedfordview Edenvale News attended the match on Friday, September 19, where the U14 St Benedict’s College team, dressed in a blue and red kit, played against St Dunstan’s College, who wore navy blue and white.

St Benedict’s welcomed 19 schools from across South Africa and also Falcon College from Zimbabwe.
The participating line-up included CBC Boksburg, ESCA, Fairways Primary School, Falcon College, Hilton College, Jeppe High School for Boys, Kearsney College, King Edward VII School, Marist Brothers Linmeyer, Maritzburg College, Meridian Karino, Parktown Boys’ High School, Saheti School, St Benedict’s College, St Dunstan’s College, St John’s College, St Peter’s College, The Kings School Linbro Park and Westville Boys’ High School.

Motsabi said the feedback from participating schools, coaches and players was overwhelmingly positive, and it was deeply encouraging to see the tournament continue its strong growth in its second year.

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She said one of the biggest highlights was the exceptional level of competition and enthusiasm displayed by all participating schools.

Spectators witnessed thrilling games, remarkable individual performances and young athletes competing with immense confidence and determination.

Motsabi added: “The electric atmosphere around the courts throughout the weekend – amplified by the passionate support of schools, coaches, parents and spectators – made the tournament truly memorable.”

The tournament built meaningfully on the foundation established in 2025. Building on the experience of St Benedict’s inaugural event, they refined key operational aspects to deliver an elevated experience for all participants.

Motsabi noted that the increased field of participating schools clearly demonstrated the growing prestige of the tournament and the strong value schools place on competing at St Benedict’s College.

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The finals provided a dramatic climax to an exceptionally competitive weekend, Motsabi observed. St John’s College was crowned champions after securing a 47–41 victory over Hilton College in the final. Host school St Benedict’s earned third place by defeating King Edward VII School 37–34 in the play-off match.

“Above all, every participating team deserves immense credit for the grit and sportsmanship displayed throughout the tournament,” said Motsabi.

The head of marketing, communications and admissions noted that this tournament extends well beyond sport – it honours the memory and values of Ephraim Mohlakane, a much-loved former sports coach at St Benedict’s College and a passionate advocate for sport for people with disabilities.

She added: “His legacy serves as a guiding beacon for young athletes, instilling the importance of integrity, passion, leadership and community service. We hope every player leaves with the understanding that personal character and teamwork matter just as much as scores on the board.”

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Lead sponsor Data Consumer Bureau, alongside supporting sponsors Sorbet, Aquellé, Wilson and City Lodge Hotels, was acknowledged and thanked for playing a vital role in executing a world-class event experience and directly empowering youth sports development, creating transformative athletic and social opportunities for young leaders.

Gratitude was also extended to all participating schools, players, coaches, referees and travelling families, especially Falcon College from Zimbabwe, for their enthusiasm, hard work and exceptional sportsmanship.
Motsabi expressed sincere appreciation to the St Benedict’s basketball coaching staff, ground staff, executive leadership for supporting the tournament yet again, and the St Benedict’s Basketball Parent Support Group for their tireless efforts behind the scenes.

“Together, we look forward to expanding this tournament and elevating youth basketball for years to come,” she said.

To the players who participated, Motsabi advised that winning is always a great achievement, but the bigger lessons are about teamwork, discipline, resilience, respect and learning how to conduct yourself both in victory and defeat.

“I hope they leave inspired to continue working on their game, to support their teammates and to understand that every competitive experience is an opportunity to grow,” she said.