By Our Reporter
Shillong, May 17: The 2nd DUBAKH Scholastic Basketball League 2026 concluded successfully at the Pearly Dew School Basketball Court in Jaiaw Laitdom here on Sunday after weeks of intense competition involving school and college teams from across Meghalaya.
Organised by DUBAKH Sports Pvt Ltd, the tournament featured 16 teams and more than 190 student-athletes with the objective of promoting grassroots basketball development while also spreading awareness against drug abuse and addiction among the youth.
The event was held in partnership with DREAM Meghalaya under the Social Welfare Department, Government of Meghalaya, and was supported by U Matter, Vector X and DB Fast Food.In the girls’ final, St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School emerged champions after defeating Mylliem Presbyterian Higher Secondary School 36-16 with a disciplined all-round performance.
The boys’ final produced a thrilling contest as Shillong Commerce College edged past Thomas Jones Synod College, Jowai by a solitary point in a dramatic 38-37 victory.
The winners in both categories received cash prizes of Rs 10,000, while the runners-up were awarded Rs 5,000 along with trophies and medals.
Among those present during the closing ceremony were DREAM Meghalaya representative Roger Vincent Kharbamon, East Khasi Hills District Basketball Association general secretary, BSF Shillong Inspector Mohit, Chi Iung Productions celebrity Veno, U Matter founder R Surong and DB Fast Food owner Kong Dora.
Speakers during the ceremony highlighted the role of sports in promoting discipline, mental wellness and positive youth engagement while encouraging youngsters to stay away from substance abuse. The organisers also thanked participating institutions, sponsors, officials, volunteers and supporters for contributing to the success of the tournament.
Beyond the competition and trophies, the tournament once again underlined the growing popularity of basketball among the youth in Meghalaya and the potential of sport as a powerful tool for social change. Over the past few weeks, the league not only provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent and competitive spirit but also created an atmosphere of friendship, discipline and community bonding among students from different parts of the state. With packed courts, energetic support from spectators and several closely-fought matches, the event reflected the steady rise of grassroots basketball culture in Meghalaya.
