Local basketball team ready to take on 2024

With games set to start in February, Edenvale Lions Basketball Academy (Elba) has geared up for the year ahead.

Coach and co-founder Edson Makavan said all the players are happy and ready for the year ahead.

“Everyone has returned in full spirits, ready to face 2024 head-on.”

Speaking about the academy’s plans, Makavan told the community about the postponement of last year’s The Vale Tournament.

Set to take place at Ellis Park Arena, the tournament was set for November 29 to December 3.

ALSO READ: Lions claim Heritage Day victory

It will now go ahead this November.

With R1m in prize money up for grabs, Elba hopes this Basketball SA-endorsed tournament will be the biggest basketball tournament in Africa.

With the tournament limited to eight teams, preference will go to local teams before it opens to teams from the African continent.

Makavan said six SA teams are participating at this stage, with two West African teams possibly taking part.

He said the tournament was postponed because deals and agreements needed finalising.

“The tournament has to happen, and we will ensure it does.”

Another plan for Elba, and something on the academy6s to-do list for several years, is constructing an overhead structure for the court.

ALSO READ: Edenvale’s Lions take on rivals

Makavan said an overhead structure would allow players to continue training, no matter the weather.

“Besides having a facility where we can train, the overhead structure will ensure the court’s longevity,” said Makavan.

Another objective for the academy is to grow its ladies’ team. Makavan said Elba has some female players but is looking for more members.

He said girls and women aged 10 and older can join the academy.

While the female team is being established, female academy members will not need to pay fees.

For more information, email byron@edenvalelions.co.za, call 082 969 4172 or 060 414 3320.
Alternatively, visit the academy’s Facebook page.