HWANGE | Victoria Falls Panthers opened their 2026/27 Matabeleland North Basketball League campaign with a commanding 42-13 victory over Royal Eagles Academy, while Victoria Falls Suns edged Hwange Basketball Club 34-30 as the new season tipped off at Hwange Sports Pavilion.
The opening programme also featured a ladies' encounter between Hwange BC and Panthers. The hosts claimed a narrow 29-28 win in a closely contested game, rounding out a full opening day for the league.
Teams from Victoria Falls travelled to Hwange for the start of the new season, and a good turnout of supporters watched the province's teams return to league action.
Panthers set the early pace
Panthers made an emphatic statement against Royal Eagles Academy, winning by 29 points to begin their campaign on a positive note. The result gives the Victoria Falls side an encouraging start as teams begin their pursuit of league honours.
The other men's fixture proved much tighter. Suns overcame hosts Hwange BC 34-30 in a competitive encounter, with the four-point margin giving the visitors an important early victory and leaving Hwange with work to do as the season progresses.
One point in the women's game
Hwange BC had reason to celebrate in the women's fixture, edging Panthers Women 29-28. The one-point result added another competitive chapter to a weekend highlighted by Panthers' big win and Suns' close finish.
The opening round underlined the importance of bringing teams together across the province. The trip from Victoria Falls gave visiting sides an early away test, while local supporters had the chance to watch the league get under way in Hwange.
With the first results now recorded, attention turns to the coming rounds as teams look to build consistency and establish their positions in the 2026/27 campaign.