Masters, Bud Cup to take center stage soon

Cagers above 35 years old need only to wait just a few more days before the start of Masters play, while players of all ages will soon vie for the $1,000 prize in the Budweiser Cup.

So far, 10 teams have confirmed play in the 2005 Masters Basketball League, which unfolds this Friday and will feature competition in the 35-and-over and 45-and-over categories, according to BANMI president Mike Muna.

Muna said league games would be played at the Northern Marianas College Gymnasium.

Making up the 35-and-over cast are the Chalan Kanoa Legends, Ol’Aces, NMC Proa, Top Thirty’s, Pacific Trading Co. Dew Dew’s, and a team organized by veteran Tony Sablan.

Teams vying for supremacy in the 45-and-over division include the Legends, Ol’Aces, Proa, and Dyna-Sores.

Players in the 45-and-over category can also play for teams in the 35-and-over division, however, their counterparts in the 35-and-over age group cannot suit up in the 45-and-over.

Teams from both age groups will also compete against each other, but wins and losses for their division standings will only count when playing a team within their division.

Muna said other teams can still take part in the league and must submit an entrance fee of $500 payable to BANMI by this Friday. Each member of the roster must also pay a $5 BANMI membership fee.

Meanwhile BANMI Men’s Island-wide Basketball League coordinator Abner Venus disclosed yesterday that four teams have already confirmed competing in the upcoming 2005 Budweiser Cup while another four have shown interest.

Returning to defend their crown is two-time defending champion Toyota, which will be competing against Ol’Aces II, Nissan Titan, and Wells Fargo.

Venus said 25-and-under Basketball League powerhouse SaipanCell-NMC Hoopaholics, 69ers, and Bud Kings may also compete in the league, as well as a team to be formed by veteran scoring machine Dave Sablan.

Bud Cup games will be held at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium. Venus is also extending an invitation to the Ghasias 7-Kings to join the open league.

The Microl Corp. body shop and service manager said the league is expected to kick off in two weeks and that teams must submit rosters and the $900 entrance fee. He also encourages teams to meet with him for orders of uniforms, designation of team colors and uniform designs, and sizes.

For more information on the Masters Basketball League or to register, contact Muna at 288-1232 or Tony Rogolifoi at 664-2508.

For more information on the Budweiser Cup, contact Venus at 287-5911.