The NPA Pythons’ resurgence in the 2025 National Basketball First Division continued over the weekend with a commanding 75–60 win over defending champions Mighty Barrolle.
The 15-point margin served as a powerful statement of intent from the Pythons, who are determined to cement their place among this season’s playoff contenders.
The match, played at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Gymnasium in Paynesville City, formed part of the first phase of the ongoing national basketball league.
It was a highly anticipated fixture, with the Pythons eager to prove themselves against a Barrolle side known for its championship pedigree.
From the opening whistle, the Pythons demonstrated a combination of tactical discipline and offensive flair, effectively controlling the tempo of the game.
Their sharp ball movement and aggressive defense limited Barrolle’s scoring opportunities while allowing the Pythons to build a steady lead.
The victory boosts the Pythons’ position in the standings and reinforces their push for a playoff spot.
However, head coach Raphael Quaye remains grounded in his approach, stressing the importance of consistency as the season unfolds.
“The players did well,” said Coach Quaye in a post-game interview. “They stuck to the game plan and executed perfectly. This win is a result of their hard work and focus, but we need to maintain this level in every match going forward.”
Also speaking after the match, NPA Sports Association President Abubakar Kanneh expressed his excitement over the team’s performance and outlined broader ambitions for the organization’s sports programs.
“It’s a great moment for the Pythons and the NPA Sports Association as a whole,” Kanneh remarked. “But this is just one part of a bigger vision. We’re working towards a complete rebranding of our sports programs—both in football and basketball. Success like this helps build momentum, but our long-term goal is sustainable growth and excellence across all disciplines.”
The win over Mighty Barrolle sends a strong message to the rest of the league that the Pythons are a team to watch this season.
LPRC Oilers Dominate Highway Kings
In another fixture over the weekend, the high-flying LPRC Oilers bounced back from recent setbacks with a dominant 79–29 victory over newly promoted Highway Kings.
The Oilers, one of the favorites to win the title this year, used the game as an opportunity to reaffirm their championship credentials.
Their performance was nothing short of clinical, with their defense suffocating the Kings’ offense while the Oilers piled on points with ease.
The 50-point win puts the Oilers back on track and serves as a warning to rivals that they remain serious contenders.
As the National Basketball First Division progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling matchups, with the race for playoff spots heating up and teams like the Pythons and Oilers proving they are here to compete at the highest level.
