JAMMU, Jun 13: The 2nd Ravinder Khajuria Memorial Basketball Tournament commenced with great enthusiasm at the Basketball Court of the University of Jammu, bringing together players, coaches and basketball enthusiasts from across the region.
The tournament is being organized by the Royal Basketball Club (RBC) in memory of Late Ravinder Khajuria, a distinguished Assistant Sub-Inspector in J&K Police and a respected basketball coach who played a pivotal role in promoting the sport in Jammu and Kashmir.
The opening ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Devyani Rana, MLA Nagrota who was accorded a warm welcome by the organizers. The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing sportsmanship, unity and excellence.
A major attraction of the ceremony was the unveiling of the official tournament T-shirt by the Chief Guest. The occasion also witnessed the felicitation of senior basketball players of Jammu and Kashmir in recognition of their contribution to the sport.
Addressing the gathering, Devyani Rana lauded the efforts of Royal Basketball Club for organizing the memorial tournament and honoring the legacy of Late Ravinder Khajuria. She urged participating players to display dedication, discipline and true sporting spirit while competing and formally declared the tournament open.
Earlier, Abhimanyu Katoch, General Secretary of RBC, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the life and achievements of Late Ravinder Khajuria, emphasizing his role in nurturing basketball talent in the Union Territory. He also welcomed the participating teams, guests, officials, sponsors and supporters.
The opening day witnessed several exciting matches. Katra defeated Hoop Hustlers 47-32, while Paloura Tigers registered a 56-32 victory over All Stars. Western Command outplayed Parade 57-30, Bathinda defeated MSP 43-33, CISF overcame RBC Junior 56-17, and BSF secured a 53-31 win against Udhampur.
As a gesture of appreciation, senior RBC coach Ranbir Singh presented a memento to Devyani Rana for gracing the occasion and encouraging young sportspersons.
The organizers thanked all participating teams, officials, sponsors, volunteers, media representatives and members of the basketball fraternity for their support. They also appreciated the efforts of the Royal Basketball Club organizing committee for ensuring the successful conduct of the tournament.
The tournament will conclude tomorrow with a series of competitive matches as teams vie for top honours.