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BANMI to host Bud Cup, Masters next month
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Posted on Mar 04 2005
Board members of the Basketball Association of the Northern Mariana Islands agreed Tuesday during its monthly meeting to kick off the 3rd Annual Budweiser Cup and the Masters Basketball League next month.
According to board member Abner Venus, the 2005 Bud Cup would tip off after Holy Week, giving the ongoing Island Wide Volleyball League ample time to conclude its 2005 season.
Officials are hoping to lure at least 10 teams to battle for the coveted championship, which comes with a $1,000 cash prize. First runner-up will take home $300 and second runner-up $200.
Venus disclosed during the meeting that teams must cough up $900 for entrance fee. The first 10 teams to pay the fee would receive free uniforms courtesy of MARPAC, the league sponsor.
The board agreed that games be played on Mondays and Wednesdays, leaving Tuesdays and Thursdays for the ongoing 2005 Mobil Oil Co-ed Invitational Basketball League and Saturdays for the 25-and-under Basketball League.
Making a return to defend their title are two-time champions Toyota Ol’Aces.
Meanwhile, Fridays will be left for the Masters action, which will pit two divisions—35-and-over and 45-and-over.
BANMI president Mike Muna disclosed during the meeting that six teams have already expressed interest in competing in the league, however, is hopeful that more teams will register before the start of the season, scheduled for April 8.
The entrance fee will be announced at a later date. Games for both leagues will be played at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.
The next BANMI meeting is scheduled for March 23 at 5:30pm at the Ada Gym conference room.
For more information on the Budweiser Cup, contact Venus at 287-5911, Elias Rangamar at 664-2503, or Muna at 664-3582. Muna and Rangamar could also be reached for the Masters league.
