Mumbai Challengers got their semifinal campaign off to a winning start when they defeated Delhi Capitals 75-69 in the first game of the three-game series at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. One more victory will take them to the final of the second season of the UBA Pro League basketball.
Both teams hit the ground running, employing offence-heavy tactics. Capitals centre Ramesh got himself into good positions and found the basket, while Mumbai forward Nikhil Dahiya’s mid-range game was strong as he scored the first four of his team’s points.
Shooting guard Ranbir Singh continued from where he left off in the playoff game, nailing his first triple attempt early. Veteran forward Jagdeep Bains stretched the floor for Mumbai in the first half, draining a couple of triples from the top of the key. On the other end, Ramesh kept plugging away at the post to give Delhi a slim lead at the end of the first quarter 18-16.
In the second quarter, Mumbai’s Jagdeep and Ranbir took over the game, scoring at will against the Delhi defence. Jagdeep used his size and skill, while Ranbir used his athleticism to their advantage. Having the ability to knock down shots from a long range as well meant these players were a nightmare to guard for Delhi. A couple of late strikes, including a triple, from backup guard Brar Dildar off the bench helped Mumbai outscore Delhi 27-14 (43-32) in the second quarter.
Down by 11 points entering the third quarter, Delhi began to cut down Mumbai’s lead through their forwards. Ramesh (11 points) continued to find success at the post while Smithin Setu was able to create space to knock down his mid-range jumpers.
With Mumbai’s lead still in single digits at the end of the third quarter, Delhi had their sights set on a comeback. However, the Mumbai hoopsters held their nerve to clinch the first game of the series 75-69. Jagdeep Bains was the player of the match, pocketing a cash prize of '25,000.
