Stallions dominate at Oblate Juniorate Basketball Encounter 2026

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Stallions Basketball Club delivered a commanding performance to clinch the Oblate Juniorate Basketball Encounter 2026, defeating St. Joseph’s OMI Seminary by a convincing 28-11 margin in the final, played alongside the inauguration of the newly refurbished basketball courts at the Oblate Juniorate in Kohuwela.

The one-day tournament, organised in conjunction with the historic reopening of the courts, featured four competitive teams — the Oblates (priests of the OMI congregation), Eugean’s (a group of Ex-Seminarians), Juniorists, and the Stallions. Despite the friendly spirit that underpinned the event, the standard of basketball on display was intense and competitive, reflecting the deep-rooted passion for the sport within the Oblate community.

Stallions BC emerged winners

After an intriguing round of matches, Stallions and St. Joseph’s OMI Seminary emerged as the two strongest sides to book their places in the final. The Juniorists, though outclassed in terms of experience and physicality, impressed with their discipline, energy and willingness to challenge a far superior Stallions outfit, earning warm applause from the spectators.

In the final, the Stallions’ cohesion, defensive solidity and swift transitions proved decisive. Led by Mohammed Naseef and guided by Head Coach Gerald Jacob, the Stallions took control early and never looked back. Umar Zahar was outstanding at both ends of the court, while Manoj Pinthoe’s attacking flair kept the Seminary defence under constant pressure. St. Joseph’s Seminary, captained by Visal Kaveesha, fought valiantly, with Nisandu Nirmal standing out for his defensive efforts, but the gap in experience ultimately told.

St. Joseph's OMI Seminary settled in as runners-up

Umar Zahar of the Stallions was adjudged the Most Valuable Player, while Fr. Deshan Peiris of Oblates was named the Most Promising Player. The Best Offensive Player was claimed by Manoj Pinthoe of Stallions, while Nisandu Nirmal of St. Joseph’s Seminary won the award for the Best Defensive Player.

The event was graced by Rev. Fr. Irwin Moraes, former Rector of the Seminary, and Rev. Fr. Jagath Anthony as guests of honour. Fr. Moraes officially inaugurated the refurbished courts with blessings, while Fr. Anthony presented the awards. The renovation of the basketball courts was made possible through the generous contributions of ex-seminarians and well-wishers who donated both funds and time.

Several dignitaries, including Rev. Fr. Roshan Fernando (Rector), Fr. Dileepa Jayamaha (Rector, De Mazebold College, Anuradhapura), Fr. Jude Roshan (Bursar), and Fr. Deshan Peiris (Prefect of Games) were present. The tournament was jointly organised by the Seminary and the Stallions Basketball Club, headed by Gerald Jacob and assisted by Nihara Bagoos.