EVATON.- Evaton Warriors made Sedibeng proud when they were crowned the 2025 St Eagles Basketball League champions over the weekend.

The team registered two divisions in the league, with the U18 team obtaining first position and the U16 team finishing third position in the league.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, the head coach, Jappie Hlalele, said their hard work has been rewarded. He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that travelling to Johannesburg every weekend was not easy. He described the league as one of the toughest basketball leagues in Gauteng. However, Hlalele said the players were prepared to die with their “boots” on like soldiers who were at war.

He said they played all their games in St Sithians in Sandton, St John in Houghton, and Bedfordview in Johannesburg. He was thankful for the support he received from the parents, players, and the St Eagles League, as they were the only team from Vaal that played in the league. There were also individual prices for players who did well in the league, and three members of the Evaton Warriors Basketball Team walked away with those awards.

“I must be realistic; I never thought we would have the muscles and strength to finish this league because of the traveling expenses. I’m very proud of what this bunch of players has achieved against all odds. You know, playing away is not the same as having home advantage. But we managed to come out on top. We went there as an unknown team from Vaal, but the respect we got out there was humbling,” said Hlalele.