Tura, July 18: Chambugong Mahari and Gabil Mahari emerged champions in the men’s and women’s categories respectively as the 2nd Inter Mahari Basketball Tournament 2026 concluded on Friday at the Don Bosco College Basketball Court in Tura.
The month-long tournament, organised by the Krimkro Socio Cultural Club, New Tura, in collaboration with the District Sports Office, Tura, and the District Basketball Association (DBA), brought together Maharis from across the Garo Hills in a celebration of basketball, unity and cultural identity.
It was sponsored by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, with additional support from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, the State Bank of India, A•Care Hospitals, Tura Sports Hub, Omega Electricals, the District Sports Office, Tura, and Rangsakona MLA Subir M. Marak.
This year’s edition featured 22 men’s teams and eight women’s teams.
Gabil edge Koknal by a point
The women’s final produced a dramatic finish as Gabil Mahari edged Koknal Mahari 49-48 in a contest decided in the closing seconds.
Koknal held a slender 21-18 lead during the second quarter before the match developed into a closely fought battle after the break, with both sides exchanging crucial baskets.
The decisive moment came in the final 15 seconds. With possession and an opportunity to seal victory, Koknal committed a costly turnover. Gabil capitalised immediately, scoring a clutch basket to move ahead by a single point with just two seconds remaining. Koknal had no time to respond as Gabil held on for a thrilling victory.
Chambugong overcome A•gitok
In the men’s final, Chambugong Mahari defeated A•gitok Mahari 74-67 to lift the championship trophy.
A•gitok made the brighter start and led after the opening quarter before Chambugong tightened up defensively and recovered to take a narrow 33-30 advantage into halftime.
Chambugong took control after the interval, dominating the third quarter to establish a double-digit lead. Although A•gitok mounted a spirited comeback in the final period, Chambugong remained composed to preserve their advantage and secure the title.
The closing ceremony was attended by Rangsakona MLA Subir M. Marak as chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Marak expressed happiness at seeing numerous Maharis participate under one platform. He said such tournaments strengthen bonds within the Garo community by encouraging interaction, friendship and unity through sport.
Also present were Fr. Jogesh B. Sangma, Principal of Don Bosco College; Saljagring M. Marak, District Sports Officer, East Garo Hills and Assistant Director of the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs; and Rupam G. Momin, President of the District Basketball Association, Tura.
Prize winners
Champions Chambugong Mahari (men) and Gabil Mahari (women) each received Rs. 50,000, along with trophies and certificates. The runners-up, A•gitok Mahari and Koknal Mahari, were awarded Rs. 25,000 each, besides trophies and certificates.
Goera Ch. Marak was named the Men’s Most Valuable Player and Top Scorer, while Lema K. Marak claimed both the Women’s Most Valuable Player and Top Scorer awards. Both top scorers also received a special cash award of Rs. 5000 each and certificates from the chief guest.
Special veteran honours were presented to Bonita G. Momin, who was named Everlasting Fit Player in the women’s 35-plus category, and Jaseng A. Sangma, who received the corresponding honour in the men’s 40-plus category.
