The second season of the University of Ghana Basketball League (LBL SZN II) is in full swing, with the Kings leading the men’s division after five weeks of intense competition. 

The league, organised by students to maintain competitiveness during the academic year, has seen impressive performances across eight teams, while the newly introduced women’s division continues to grow.

According to the latest standings, the Kings top the table with 12 points, boasting four wins and a staggering +99 point difference. Close behind are the Bulldogs, also on 12 points but with a lower differential of +61. The Vipers sit in third with nine points, while the Knight Sharks, Reapers, Panthers, and Wolves are locked in a tight mid-table battle with six points each. The Eagles remain winless at the bottom.

Kwabena Sarfo, an organiser and player for the Eagles, explained the league’s origins: "We noticed that during the second semester, we don’t do anything. So a couple of us got together and organised this league to stay competitive." This season, the league expanded to include a women’s division with four teams, while the men’s division retained its eight-team format. Though the prizes are modest—trophies and medals for winners, plus individual awards like MVP and Defensive Player of the Year—the focus remains on development. "It’s not only about competition but personal growth for players," Sarfo added.

Glen Aduako of the Panthers shared his thoughts on the league’s quality: "We have good players—D1, D2 talents from across the country. It brings strong competition." Currently fourth, the Panthers are aiming for a higher playoff spot. Aduako emphasised the balance between academics and basketball: "We plan everything carefully so it doesn’t disrupt studies."

Last Sunday’s fixtures saw the Bulldogs edge the Reapers 46-40, while the Knight Sharks crushed the Eagles 75-30. The Kings continued their dominance with a 70-37 victory over the Wolves, and the Vipers narrowly defeated the Panthers 49-42.

The league’s playoff format will see the top four men’s teams advance to a knockout stage, with the finals scheduled for July 7. For the women, the top team after two rounds will be crowned champions.

With high-energy games and a focus on player development, the LBL SZN II is proving to be a vital platform for Ghana’s budding basketball talent.