Gateway beat Maris Stella in extra-time to take School Games title

The 2019 edition of the National School Games concluded in Kurunegala, crowning Gateway College as the champions of the U20 boys’ Basketball tournament. St. Joseph`s College – Nugegoda were crowned winners of the U20 girls’ category.

The final of the U20 boys’ category was tipped off between Maris Stella College and Gateway College – Colombo. With both teams equally matched, the final turned out to be a nail biter which went into extra time.

At the end of the final quarter, both teams were on equal footing, scoring 55 points each. During the extra-time period of 05 minutes, it was Mirtesh Thurairajah`s hat-trick of 3-pointers which led Gateway to the win. Finals scores read, 67-64.

In the semi-finals of the tournament, Gateway College went on to beat Jaffna Central College, 80-60, and in the quarter-finals, they beat Trinity College Kandy 59-46.

Score breakdown – Under 20 Boys’ Final

The U20 girls’ finals was played between St. Joseph`s Girls’ School – Nugegoda and Holy Family Convent – Colombo 04. The Nugegoda girls looked to be in total control of the game as they recorded a massive 20-point victory over their opponents. Final scores read, 33-62.

The U17 boys’ championship was won by St. Joseph`s College beating St. Anne`s College – Kurunegala. Final scores read, 55-76. The girls’ title was secured by Holy Family Convent – Colombo 04 beating Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya, Kandy. Final scores read, 54-21.

The best player awards of the tournament were awarded as follows:

• U20 Boys` Best Player – Mirtesh Thurairsjah – Gateway College – Colombo 
• U20 Girls` Best Player – Nihari Perera – St. Joseph`s Girls’ School – Nugegoda